Do VA loans require a home inspection in Kansas City, or just an appraisal?
One of the most misunderstood parts of the VA loan process in the Kansas City Metro is the difference between a VA appraisal and a home inspection.
When you use a VA loan, the property must go through a VA appraisal process. This serves two main purposes. First, it confirms the home’s market value. Second, it ensures the property meets the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements, often called MPRs. These standards are focused on safety, structural soundness, and livability. For example, the appraiser will look for issues like a damaged roof, peeling lead-based paint in older homes, or safety concerns such as exposed wiring.
But here is where many buyers get tripped up. The VA appraisal is not a full home inspection.
A licensed home inspector performs a much more detailed evaluation of the property, including the foundation, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical, and overall condition. In Kansas City, where housing stock can range from newer suburban homes in areas like Olathe and Overland Park to older properties in parts of Kansas City, Missouri, this step becomes even more important.
Skipping the inspection might save a little money upfront, but it can lead to costly surprises later. A proper inspection gives you negotiating power and peace of mind before you finalize the purchase.
During the home purchase process, you, the veteran, will want to schedule your home inspection with the assistance of your buyer’s agent.
Once we, as your lender, know that you are satisfied with any repairs to be made by the seller, this is when we will order your VA appraisal. My team takes care of this and typically we need to give the VA appraiser enough time to see your home and the comparable home sales in the area. Typically we are to give the VA appraiser 2 weeks to turn around our appraisal order.
In today’s market, some buyers feel pressure to waive inspections to stay competitive. That is where having a strategy matters. You can still structure a strong offer while protecting yourself, especially when you understand how the VA appraisal and inspection work together.
The bottom line is simple. The VA protects the property at a basic level, but the inspection protects you.
Need Help Structuring a VA Loan in Kansas City?
I’m Jim Yarrington, Senior Mortgage Loan Officer with First State Bank Mortgage, and I’m proud to serve as a Veteran Mortgage Advisor.
Jim Yarrington
Senior Mortgage Loan Officer
First State Bank Mortgage
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📞 Call or text: 913-915-1855
All loans subject to approval. Equal Housing Lender.