If you’re a veteran looking to buy a home or you’re a homeowner getting ready to sell and you have a veteran looking to purchase your home, you’ve probably heard about the VA appraisal process — and maybe even a few myths about it. With more buyers using VA loans, it’s smart to understand how VA appraisals really work and what you can do to keep your sale on track.

Let’s take a closer look.👇

 

💬 What’s a VA Appraisal?

When a buyer uses a VA loan, the Department of Veterans Affairs requires a licensed VA appraiser to review the home. Keep in mind, the person doing the walkthrough must be licensed as a VA appraiser or it won’t count. Their job is to make sure the home is safe, sound, and sanitary — and that it’s priced fairly based on current market value.

They’re not grading your home’s beauty or upgrades. They just want to make sure it’s move-in ready and free of major health or safety issues.

 

🧱 What will the appraiser check?

Think of a VA appraiser as a home inspector and an appraiser wrapped up in one.  The appraiser will not be as thorough as a home inspector, though.  Here’s what appraisers focus on the most:

1. Structure and stability
   The home needs a solid foundation, roof, and walls with no signs of serious damage or decay.

 

2. Safe access and working utilities
   There must be year-round access from a public road, plus reliable water, heat, electricity, and sewage systems.

 

3. Functional mechanical systems
   Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems should be safe and working properly. Things like GFCI outlets in bathrooms or kitchens, working smoke and CO detectors, and heat that works through a Pennsylvania winter all matter.

 

4. Health and safety basics
   Peeling paint (especially in homes built before 1978) must be fixed to avoid lead-based paint concerns. They’ll check for secure railings and steps, secure windows, and signs of mold.

 

5. Pest and environmental hazards
   If termites, radon, or asbestos are common in your area, the appraiser will look for those risks too.

 

🛠️ How do I get ready for a VA Appraisal?

Knowing what the appraiser will look for is important when making decisions on what needs to be fixed.  If you know there are some things the appraiser will flag, then taking care of them early can save a lot of time later.

Handle small repairs now.
Patch cracks, replace missing screens, fix leaks, and make sure all your smoke and CO detectors work.

Tidy up your curb appeal.
Secure loose railings outside (and inside), clear the walkway, and make sure entry steps and porches look solid.

Double-check safety items.
Install GFCI outlets near water, and test every outlet, light, and smoke alarm before listing.

Stay ahead of pest issues.
If your area is known for termites or radon, get a quick inspection before listing and fix anything small before it becomes big.

 

🧾 What If the Appraiser finds a problem?

If the VA appraiser spots something that doesn’t meet standards, don’t panic. You’ll get a list of required repairs, and you’ll usually have a chance to fix them.  Actually, the loan won’t be able to move forward until the repairs are finished and the appraiser has had a chance to come back out and check the work. Sometimes, you’ll need to provide proof — receipts, photos, or a contractor statement — before the lender can move forward.

Buyers using VA loans may ask the seller to handle repairs or offer to do the work themselves. If the buyers offer to do the work on your property, make sure your agent has them sign a “hold-harmless” release so if anything happens, you are covered. Sellers who prepare before listing the home often avoid last-minute negotiations and delays.

 

💡 Why do I need to think about this?

With the number of VA buyers increasing and with Central PA’s market moving more towards balancing, sellers who understand what the VA appraiser looks for will gain a real advantage.  Homes that pass VA appraisals avoid costly delays and monetary loss – and stand out to motivated, qualified Veteran buyers.

Homeowners who take care of safety, access, and mechanical basics ahead of time usually enjoy smoother sales, fewer surprises, and stronger offers.

 

If you’re a homeowner thinking about selling, check out my free VA-ready checklist, and the most effective home upgrades for boosting your home’s value before it ever hits the market. 👋