Appraisal prep starts here

VA Property
Requirements

The VA appraisal protects you from buying a home with safety, structural, or sanitary issues. Here is the complete checklist of what passes, what fails, and how to fix common problems.

Check Your VA Rate (702) 696-9900

CHECKLIST

What VA Appraisers Look For

Must Pass

Roof with 2+ years remaining life

Working HVAC, plumbing, and electrical

Safe potable water supply

Adequate sewage disposal

No lead paint hazards (pre-1978 homes)

No termite damage or active infestation

Adequate access from public road

No foundation cracks or structural issues

Common Fails

Peeling paint on pre-1978 homes

Missing handrails on stairs/decks

Standing water in crawl space

Non-functional appliances included in sale

Roof damage or missing shingles

Exposed wiring or electrical hazards

PROPERTY TYPES

Eligible Property Types

🏠

Single-Family Home

Most common VA purchase

🏢

Condo (VA-Approved)

Must be on VA approved list

🏘️

Multi-Unit (2-4)

Must occupy one unit

🏭

Manufactured Home

Permanent foundation required

FAQ

Property Questions

The seller can fix the issues and have the appraiser re-inspect, you can renegotiate the price, or you can walk away. Your earnest money is typically protected by the VA appraisal contingency.

VA appraisal fees range from $500-$800 depending on location. In Nevada, the typical fee is around $600. The buyer pays this fee, but it can be covered by seller credits.

No. The VA appraisal is required on all VA purchase loans. It protects both you and the VA by ensuring the home meets minimum property requirements and is valued fairly.

Typically 7-10 business days from when it is ordered. In busy markets, it can take up to 2 weeks. Your lender orders the appraisal through the VA portal.

Common issues: peeling paint (pre-1978 homes), roof with less than 2 years life, missing handrails on 3+ step staircases, exposed wiring, and non-functional HVAC. Most are minor fixes.