Essential VA Loan Property Requirements

Understanding VA Minimum Property Requirements: A Comprehensive Guide

Today, we delve into a critical topic for VA home buyers and real estate professionals alike—the VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). If you're looking to buy or sell a home with a VA loan, these standards are essential to ensure the property meets the necessary safety, structural soundness, and usability criteria.

General Safety and Soundness of the Property

The first and foremost requirement is the general safety and soundness of the property. The home must be free from any hazards that could affect the health and safety of the occupants. This includes:

• Structural Soundness: The property must be structurally sound and free from any major impairments.
• Tripping Hazards: Severe tripping hazards, such as major buckling of concrete, must be remedied.
• Handrails: Any stairs with three or more risers need to have handrails to prevent accidents.

Mixed-Use Properties

Did you know that a property with up to 25% of non-residential use can still qualify for a VA loan? This is excellent news for those considering mixed-use properties. However, the primary use must remain residential.

Mechanical Systems

The mechanical systems in the home must be adequate, safe, and protected from the elements. Key points include:

• Heating Systems: Every home must have a conventional heating system capable of maintaining a temperature of at least 50°F in areas with plumbing. Wood stoves cannot be the sole heat source.
• Backup Systems: If the property uses solar systems for water and space heating, there must be a reliable backup system to ensure continuous utility access.

Roof Requirements

The roof is another critical aspect, and it must meet the following criteria:

• Remaining Life: The roof must have at least two years of remaining life.
• Shingle Layers: There should be no more than three layers of shingles to ensure weather protection and avoid immediate replacement needs.

Crawl Spaces and Attics

Proper maintenance of crawl spaces and attics is crucial for the longevity and safety of the property:

• Access and Ventilation: Crawl spaces must have adequate access, be clear of debris, and properly vented. Attics also need natural ventilation to prevent moisture buildup.
• Moisture Control: Any excessive dampness or water ponding must be corrected to prevent mold and structural issues.

Multi-Unit Buildings

For those in multi-unit buildings, certain shared facilities are acceptable:

• Shared Spaces: Laundry and storage spaces can be shared if there are only two to four units, provided they meet VA standards.

Rear Access and Private Streets

Ensuring proper access is essential for usability and safety:

• Rear Access: This can be through an alley, easement, or a passage through the dwelling itself.
• Private Streets: These need to have a permanent easement and be maintained by an HOA or maintenance agreements. All streets must have an all-weather surface.

Utility Access

Each living unit must have its own access, and utilities should not pass over, under, or through another unit unless there's a legal and permanent access for maintenance and repair.

Building Spacing and Termite Inspections

Adequate spacing between buildings is necessary for the maintenance of exterior walls without encroaching on neighboring properties. Additionally, a termite inspection is required, and if treatment is necessary, it must be done to protect the property from potential damage.

Lot Drainage and Exterior Wood Protection

Proper lot drainage is essential to prevent water damage:

• Drainage: The property must drain away from the dwelling to avoid related issues.
• Wood Protection: Exterior wood must be protected from the elements, including fixing any chipped or peeling paint, especially for homes built before 1978 to prevent lead exposure.

Easement Restrictions and Utility Connections

Certain easement restrictions are in place to ensure safety:

• High-Pressure Gas/Petroleum Easements: Properties cannot be located within a high-pressure gas or petroleum easement unless they meet special certifications.
• High Voltage Electric Line Easements: Similar restrictions apply to properties near high voltage electric lines.

Connection to public water and sewer systems is required if maintained by local authorities. For private water systems, testing is necessary to ensure safety. Shared wells must be adequate and have maintenance agreements in place.

Conclusion

These are just some of the key points to consider when looking at a property for VA financing. By ensuring these minimum property standards are met, we can make the home buying process smoother and safer for our veterans.

Additional Resources

Thank you for reading. If you found this guide helpful, don't forget to share it with others and check out our free VA Property Standards checklist. It will help ensure your property meets all the requirements before listing it. If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below or contact us directly—we're happy to help.