Have you been pre-approved for a VA mortgage, but are wondering how you are going to ensure that the home you purchase will meet VA guidelines? Here is a list of items that the VA will look for to ensure that the property meets lending guidelines for the VA Home Loan Inspection Checklist.
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Mechanical systems must be safe and have reasonable future utility
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Heating must be adequate
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Roofing must be adequate
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Crawl spaces and basements must be dry
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The property must be free of termites, dry rot, and fungus growth
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Lead-based paint must be remediated
Some of these items will be easy to spot at your initial showing at the property. Both your Home Inspector and VA Appraiser will also assess the condition of the property and outline any concerns in their respective reports. Don’t stress, the majority of home conditions do fall within VA lending guidelines. For more tips and tricks on understanding your VA Home Loan Inspection join Savvy Veteran Homebuyer.
Why It Matters:
The VA wants to ensure that the home you’re investing in is not only livable but also safe and structurally sound. While cosmetic flaws typically don’t affect approval, issues with systems like plumbing, electricity, and roofing can hold up the process. That’s why it’s helpful to review this checklist before making an offer.
Pro Tip:
Walk the property with your agent and bring this checklist along. Pay close attention to signs of water damage, old or unsafe wiring, and visible roofing issues. Taking a proactive approach can help avoid delays and surprises later in the process.
VA loans are an incredible benefit. So, maximize them by understanding every part of the process.
