When you're shopping for a home with a VA loan, you'll hear about Minimum Property Requirements, or MPRs. These standards can affect which homes you can buy and which ones won't qualify for VA financing. The VA's Minimum Property Requirements are a set of property standards that ensure any home purchased with a VA loan is safe, structurally sound, and sanitary enough for year-round occupancy. 

Understanding these requirements before you start house hunting can save you time and potential complications during the buying process. This guide breaks down what the MPRs cover, why they exist, and how they might affect your home search so you can shop with confidence.

Why the VA Has Property Standards

The MPRs exist to protect you as the homebuyer. According to VA guidelines, these standards ensure Veterans aren't purchasing homes with serious defects that could compromise their health or financial wellbeing. The VA guarantees a portion of your loan, so they have a vested interest in making sure the property is a sound investment.

Think of MPRs as having an experienced advocate looking out for you, especially valuable if you're a first-time homebuyer who might not recognize serious problems. 

Structural Soundness and Safety

The foundation of MPRs (literally and figuratively) focuses on whether the home is structurally sound and safe to occupy.

Foundation and Structure

The home's foundation must be stable without significant cracks, settling, or other issues that threaten structural integrity. Appraisers look for evidence of foundation problems like doors that don't close properly or sloping floors. Although they aren’t experts, they are the first line of defense. Home inspections are still recommended.

Roof Requirements

The roof is one of the most commonly cited areas in VA appraisals. Roofs must have sufficient remaining life to protect the property. Most lenders interpret this to mean at least three years of remaining useful life, though some require more.

Appraisers note missing or damaged shingles, evidence of leaks, sagging sections, or roofs that appear to be at the end of their lifespan, although this inspection is done from the ground. A roof in poor condition will require repair or replacement before the loan can close.

Accessibility and Safety Features

The property must have safe access and emergency egress. This means bedrooms need proper windows for emergency exit, stairs need handrails, and the home must be accessible without requiring specialized vehicles or equipment.

Essential Systems and Utilities

Homes must have functioning essential systems that provide for basic living needs.

Heating Systems

Every home financed with a VA loan must have a permanent heating system adequate to heat the living areas to a healthful temperature. According to VA requirements, space heaters and fireplaces don't count as adequate heating systems. The heating system must be safe and in working condition.

Electrical and Plumbing

The electrical system must be safe and adequate for the home's needs. Appraisers look for obvious hazards like exposed wiring, makeshift connections, or insufficient electrical capacity for a modern home.

The property needs a continuous supply of safe, sanitary water. For homes with well water, you'll typically need a water test to ensure the supply is safe and adequate. The plumbing system must function properly with decent water pressure and proper drainage.

Sewage Disposal

Proper sewage disposal is non-negotiable. Homes connected to municipal sewer systems generally meet this requirement without issue. Properties with septic systems need functioning systems appropriate for the home's size. Many lenders require septic inspections to verify the system works properly and won't need immediate replacement.

Health and Safety Requirements

Several MPRs focus specifically on protecting your health and safety.

Freedom from Hazardous Materials

Properties must be free from lead-based paint hazards, deteriorating asbestos, and other environmental contaminants. For homes built before 1978, any chipped, peeling, or damaged paint must be repaired and repainted due to lead paint concerns inside and outside the home.

Wood-Destroying Insects

In many parts of the country, the VA requires a wood-destroying insect inspection. The VA states that this inspection is mandatory in certain states and recommended in others. Active infestations or evidence of significant previous damage typically requires treatment and repairs before closing.

Proper Ventilation and Drainage

Adequate ventilation helps prevent moisture problems that lead to mold and structural damage. Attics, crawl spaces, and bathrooms need proper ventilation to manage moisture and maintain healthy indoor air quality.

The property must have adequate drainage that directs water away from the foundation. Standing water near the foundation or poor grading can cause serious structural problems over time. Appraisers look for proper grading, functional gutters and downspouts, and no evidence of water intrusion.

What MPRs Don't Cover

Understanding what the requirements don't include helps set realistic expectations.

The VA doesn't care about cosmetic concerns like outdated décor, old-fashioned color schemes or worn carpet (unless it's a tripping hazard). MPRs ensure basic safety and livability, not luxury or modern amenities. The home doesn't need granite countertops or stainless appliances. Normal wear and tear doesn't violate MPRs either. Small nail holes, minor scuffs on walls, or other imperfections are expected in lived-in homes.

How MPRs Affect Your Home Search

Understanding these requirements helps you shop more strategically.

Properties to Approach with Caution

Extreme fixer-uppers or properties marketed as "as-is" may not meet MPRs. Homes with obvious structural issues, properties clearly lacking adequate heating, houses with visible roof damage, and homes with significant deferred maintenance often face MPR challenges.

Working with Your Real Estate Agent

Choose an agent experienced with VA loans who understands MPRs. They can help you identify potential issues before you make an offer and negotiate repair requests more effectively when problems arise during appraisal. 

When Properties Don't Meet MPRs

If a property fails to meet minimum requirements, you have several options.

• Seller repairs are most common. Sellers agree to complete required repairs before closing, usually negotiated after the appraisal identifies specific issues.
• Price reduction is sometimes an option, though the VA still requires safety-related issues to be addressed before closing.
• Walking away is your right if repairs are too extensive or the seller won't address them. Most contracts include contingencies that allow this without penalty when properties don't meet appraisal requirements.

Preparing for Success

While you can't control everything, you can take steps to smooth the process.

Look critically at properties during showings and note obvious issues. If you notice MPR concerns, consider making repair requests part of your purchase offer. Allow sufficient time in your purchase contract for appraisal completion and any needed repairs. Most contracts allow 30-45 days to close, which provides breathing room for addressing minor repair requirements.

Keep in contact with your lender and agent throughout the process. They'll update you on appraisal status and any issues that arise.

Buying with Confidence

The VA's MPRs prevent you from purchasing properties with serious safety or structural issues that could cost you thousands in unexpected repairs or compromise your wellbeing.

Understanding what appraisers look for helps you shop more strategically, ask better questions during showings, and avoid properties likely to cause problems. Work with experienced professionals who know VA financing and remember that sometimes walking away from a problem property is the best decision you can make.

When you finally close on a home that meets all VA standards, you should still get a home inspection. That way, you can move in knowing it's been thoroughly vetted. 

Get started online today to begin your journey toward VA-backed homeownership.

FAQs

Can I buy a fixer-upper with a VA loan?

Quite possibly. Homes needing cosmetic updates are more likely to qualify. Properties with serious structural issues or safety hazards typically won't meet MPRs. For major renovations, you might explore a VA renovation loan, which allows you to finance both the purchase and renovation costs.

What if I'm willing to accept a property with issues?

Your willingness to take on problems doesn't override MPRs. The VA won't guarantee a loan on a property that doesn't meet minimum standards. This protection exists because buyers sometimes underestimate the cost and complexity of needed repairs.

Do MPRs vary by location?

The basic requirements apply everywhere, but some location-specific considerations exist. Termite inspection requirements vary by state. Local building codes affect certain safety requirements. Climate-related concerns like heating system adequacy depend on where you're buying.

Can sellers refuse to make required repairs?

Yes, sellers can refuse to make repairs, just as you can choose not to buy the property under those circumstances. Negotiating repair responsibilities is part of the home-buying process.

How strict are VA appraisers about MPRs?

Appraisers follow standardized guidelines and are generally consistent in applying them. However, some judgment is involved, particularly for borderline issues. Two appraisers might have slightly different opinions on whether a roof has sufficient remaining life or whether certain repairs are truly necessary.