VA Inspection

We know that the homebuying process can be confusing and strive to alleviate some of the stress by providing information on the VA Inspection process. There are two terms that are commonly used interchangeably but have very different meanings. The terms are VA appraisals and VA inspections.

VA appraisals are required for the VA lender to make a loan approval. Basically, the VA appraisal is an assessment of the property’s value and condition that is conducted by an independent VA appraiser. The appraisal is not to be mistaken for a home inspection. While home inspections are not required for VA Loans in the state of Texas, they are strongly recommended.

The appraiser compiles the comparable sale and property condition information into a minimum property requirements report and uploads it to the VA’s secure portal. The appraiser is looking for specific information. The appraisal report will have an estimated value for the property and list any repairs needed to bring it up to VA guidelines.

 An inspection is a much more thorough. Home inspectors in the state of Texas are licensed professionals trained to evaluate structural systems, electrical systems, plumbing systems, appliances, as well as heating, ventilation, and cooling systems. A home inspection is an assessment of existing problems and can also highlight potential issues that may be on their way. While a VA Inspection is an optional service and the same as a standard Home Inspection, it is important to emphasize that in the state of Texas, a Wood-destroying insect inspection is required for all VA Home Loans.

Home inspectors are required to remain emotionally impartial while evaluating a home, which some buyers may not be able to do. While this may sound like a negative, it is actually very helpful to the buyer. Scenario: You have found your dream home and you’ve fallen in love with it. You don’t want to look for reasons to derail the process and understandably so, but you may be missing or even ignoring a deficiency that could result in costly repairs. To obtain a fair assessment, you need to rely on someone who can remain objective.

A home inspection is a great way for the buyer to gain as much information about a property as possible to make an educated decision about whether to proceed with the real estate transaction. It can alert you of a home’s deficiencies before the deal is complete and gives you the chance to renegotiate the purchase contract.

More information can be found on various websites but the article I find most helpful can be found here.