What Are VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)?

Key Takeaways

- VA loans require homes to meet Minimum Property Requirements to ensure they are safe and livable.
- A VA appraisal is mandatory, but a separate home inspection is still highly recommended.
- If a home doesn’t meet MPRs, repairs must be made before loan approval.
- Manufactured homes can qualify for VA loans if they meet specific size and structural guidelines.

VA loan inspection requirements and VA minimum property requirements (MPRs) are critical for veterans and service members using a VA loan to buy a home. These guidelines protect both buyers and lenders by ensuring the property is safe, structurally sound, and sanitary. Understanding what the VA looks for during the appraisal process can help you avoid delays, additional costs, or even a denied loan.

Understanding VA Minimum Property Requirements

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) enforces MPRs to guarantee that financed homes meet baseline standards for safety and livability. Before a VA loan receives final approval, a VA-certified appraiser visits the property to verify its value and ensure it aligns with MPR standards.

VA Appraisal vs. Home Inspection

While both offer valuable insights, the VA appraisal and a home inspection serve different purposes.

Comparison	VA Appraisal	Home Inspection
Purpose	Determine value and MPR compliance	Assess overall condition of the home
Required?	Yes	Optional but highly recommended
Scope	General safety and market value	Detailed evaluation of systems (HVAC, roof, plumbing, etc.)

The VA appraisal ensures the home is safe and marketable. A home inspection, on the other hand, offers peace of mind by exposing deeper maintenance or structural issues that could cost you down the road.

Key VA Property Requirements

To pass a VA appraisal, a property must meet several minimum criteria. These aren’t optional—they ensure veterans invest in a home that’s livable from day one.

Requirement Category	Highlights
Structure & Mechanics	Stable foundation, functional electric, plumbing, and HVAC systems
Roof & Interior Spaces	Roof in good condition, accessible attic/crawl space, dry basement
Water & Sewage	Potable water, safe and compliant waste disposal
Environmental Safety	No flooding, sinkholes, or hazardous proximity to gas or power lines
Paint Hazards	Homes built before 1978 must be free of chipped or peeling lead-based paint
Access & Zoning	Year-round road access, zoned for residential use
Safety Features	Pools must be secure, burglar bars require quick-release mechanisms

What If the Property Doesn’t Meet MPRs?

If a property falls short of VA loan inspection requirements, you have a few options:

The seller may complete repairs before closing
The appraiser can re-inspect after corrections
In rare cases, the buyer may request a waiver for minor issues

Important: Although some repairs may be handled post-closing using escrow funds, the property must meet MPRs before the VA will guarantee the loan.

Do Manufactured Homes Qualify for VA Loans?

Yes, manufactured homes can qualify—but they must meet these specific VA guidelines:

Type	Minimum Size	Other Requirements
Single-wide	400 sq. ft.	Must be permanently attached to a foundation
Double-wide	700 sq. ft.	Must comply with local zoning and code regulations

Benefits of Meeting VA Loan Inspection Requirements

Ensuring your property meets MPRs provides:

Peace of mind that your investment is safe and secure
Fewer unexpected repair costs post-purchase
A smoother, faster closing process
Protection for both the borrower and the lender

Bottom Line

Meeting VA loan inspection requirements is essential for any veteran or service member using a VA loan. These inspections safeguard your investment and ensure your home is ready to live in from day one. While a VA appraisal checks for compliance and market value, a full home inspection helps you dive deeper into the home’s condition.

Choosing a home that meets VA Minimum Property Requirements up front saves you time, money, and stress—making your path to homeownership much smoother.

FAQs: VA Inspection Requirements