Is That Listing Ready for a VA Buyer?
Below is a list of VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)
for existing homes that can be used as a screening checklist for your listings.
- General: Must be free of hazards that affect the health and safety of occupants, structural soundness of property, or impair the use and enjoyment of property.
- Handrails required on stairs with 3 or more risers.
- Severe tripping hazards must be remedied (i.e., major buckling of concrete).
- 25% maximum non-residential use.
- Mechanical systems must be adequate, safe, and protected from elements.
- Conventional heating system must be present in all homes to maintain temperature of 50 degrees in areas with plumbing (i.e., wood stove cannot be only heat source).
- Solar systems for water and space heating must have reliable backup system.
- Roof must have 2 years of remaining life and no more than 3 layers of shingles.
- Crawlspace must have adequate access, be clear of debris and be properly vented. Must have access to ductwork and plumbing.
- Excessive dampness or ponding of water in crawlspace must be corrected.
- Natural ventilation of attics and crawl spaces must be provided.
- Laundry and storage space may be shared in a 2-4 unit.
- Rear yard must have access. Row units may be by means of alley, easement, or passage through subject dwelling.
- Private streets must have permanent easement and be maintained by HOA or maintenance agreement.
- Streets must have all-weather surface.
- Living unit must have its own access.
- Unit utilities may not pass over, under or through another living unit unless there is legal and permanent access for maintenance and repair.
- Must be space between buildings for maintenance of exterior walls.
- Termite cert required. Treatment required if necessary.
- Lot must drain away from dwelling.
- Exterior wood must be protected from elements. Chipped or peeling paint must be remedied.
- Properties built prior to 1978 must have all defective paint surfaces remedied both interior and exterior.
- Property cannot be located within a high-pressure gas or petroleum easement. If located within 220 yards’ special certifications will be required.
- Property cannot be located within a high-voltage electric line easement.
- Connection to public water/sewer disposal systems is only required when mandated by building, planning or health authorities.
- Private water systems must be tested.
- Water treatment systems are allowed only if public water is not available and water supply is from aquifer confirmed uncontaminated by health department.
- Shared wells must be adequate and have maintenance and well-sharing agreements.