February 3, 2026
9 minutes
You’re under contract. Excitement is high. But then the appraisal report comes - and the value’s too low. Or the roof needs repairs. Suddenly, the deal you thought was solid starts to slip.
If you’re using a VA loan, one thing stands between you and your dream home: the VA appraisal. It’s meant to protect you - but it can also delay or derail your closing if you’re not prepared.
Don’t worry - we’ve got your back. This guide will walk you through the VA appraisal process, highlight common pitfalls, and show you how to get ahead of issues before they cost you the deal.
Key Takeaways:
- VA appraisals are required to confirm a property meets safety and value standards for a VA loan.
- Delays usually stem from property condition issues or incomplete documentation.
- Preparing for the VA appraisal can help prevent funding delays or rejections.
- VA appraisals differ from home inspections - understand both to avoid confusion.
- You have resources - reAlpha Mortgage can make the process easier and more affordable.
Why Does The VA Appraisal Matter?
- According to the VA, most appraisals are completed in 10 days or less-but delays happen.
- The top reasons VA loans get delayed include:
- Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) violations
- Low valuations
- Slow response from sellers or agents
Heads up: Nearly every VA loan requires an appraisal. It’s not optional.
Source: VA.gov Home Loan Appraisal Guidelines
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What Happens During a VA Appraisal?
A VA-certified appraiser is assigned by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Their mission?
- Verify the home's market value
- Confirm the property meets VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)
What They Check?
- Foundation stability
- Roof condition
- HVAC systems
- Water and electrical functionality
- Access to clean drinking water
- Absence of health hazards (e.g., mold, lead-based paint)
They don’t test appliances or inspect every outlet. That’s for a home inspection, which is optional but highly recommended.
VA Appraisal vs Home Inspection vs Conventional Appraisal
| Feature | VA Appraisal | Home Inspection | Conventional Appraisal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Required for loan approval | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Checks health/safety | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Determines market value | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Can delay closing | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Buyer pays for service | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Pro Tip: Think of the VA appraisal as the gatekeeper to your castle. If it doesn't approve the drawbridge, no one gets in.
What Fails a VA Appraisal Most Often?
- Peeling lead-based paint (pre-1978 homes)
- Exposed wiring
- Roof leaks or sagging
- Cracked or broken windows
- Inoperable heating/cooling
- Missing handrails on stairs
- Structural damage or foundation issues
Want the full checklist? Here’s the official VA MPR Guide.
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How to Prepare for a VA Appraisal? (Buyer or Seller)
Sellers:
- Fix obvious safety issues (e.g., broken steps, missing smoke detectors)
- Ensure utilities are on and systems are functioning
- Make sure the attic and crawl spaces are accessible
Buyers:
- Ask your agent to pre-check the home for MPR issues
- Schedule a private inspection early
- Have a backup lender in case of delays
Pro Tip: If the appraised value is lower than the sale price, you can request a Reconsideration of Value (ROV).
Avoiding VA Loan Delays: Real Talk
Here’s the truth: appraisal delays often come down to miscommunication and unprepared properties. Speed matters, especially when rates change weekly.
That’s why we recommend working with reAlpha Mortgage (NMLS #1743790). We specialize in VA loans and move fast - with empathy, transparency, and veteran-first expertise
What Comes After the Appraisal?
If it’s approved and meets value, the underwriter moves forward. If not?
- The loan could be suspended
- You may renegotiate the price or request repairs
- You can walk away with no penalty if the VA clause is in your contract
Don’t forget: the VA Escape Clause protects you if the value is too low.
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- Personalized support from licensed agents
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- Veteran-friendly guidance at every step.
FAQs
What hurts a VA appraisal?
Safety hazards, poor property conditions, and overpricing can all hurt your appraisal outcome.
How strict is a VA appraisal?
Strict on safety and livability, but fair. It’s not designed to block your home - just to protect you.
How long does a VA home appraisal take?
Usually 7–10 days. Delays can occur if repairs or further reviews are needed.
What do VA appraisers look for?
Value, health/safety issues, structural integrity, working systems, and adherence to VA MPRs
Can you fail a VA appraisal?
Yes, if the home doesn't meet VA MPRs or is valued below the sale price.
Final Word: Your Home. Your Terms. No Delays.
Buying a home is a big decision - and having the right information puts you ahead. But the real advantage comes from pairing smart research with a smarter way to buy.
When you use a reAlpha real estate company, you can be eligible to receive up to 1% of the home purchase price back as a credit at closing. Add reAlpha Mortgage, and that rebate can increase to up to 1.5% back, helping offset closing costs and keep more money in your pocket when it matters most.
The rebate is simple, transparent, and applied directly at closing - no complicated hoops, no delayed payouts. Just real savings tied to using a fully integrated homebuying experience.
See how much you could save:
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Disclosures:
- reAlpha Mortgage is a licensed mortgage broker, NMLS #1743790. Equal Housing Opportunity.
- VA loans are backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs but issued by private lenders.
- Appraisal results are not guarantees of home condition.
- reAlpha is a separate platform offering real estate investment opportunities. Investment involves risk.
This content is for educational purposes and not a commitment to lend or invest.
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Article by
Rocky Billore is a mortgage industry leader and Chief Sales Officer with over two decades of experience across residential and commercial lending. Since entering the industry in 2004, he has been directly involved in funding more than $1.4 billion in loans. A recognized expert in VA and government lending, Rocky combines deep program knowledge with a data driven, relationship-first leadership style. His work focuses on building scalable sales organizations, developing high performing teams, and aligning technology with real world lending outcomes to improve the homeownership experience.