08/24/2026
🇺🇸Using your VA loan is an incredible benefit—but remember: the VA guarantees the loan, not the condition of the home.
A VA appraisal is NOT the same thing as a home inspection.
The appraisal looks at value and VA’s minimum property requirements, while your home inspection is designed to help you understand the actual condition of the home.
If you’re a VA buyer, pay close attention to:
Home inspection — roof, foundation/structure, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, windows, drainage, etc.
Pest Inspection— termite/wood-destroying insect concerns and any required documentation or repairs (sellers order the WDO in IL)
Safety issues — hazards that could affect the property’s ability to meet VA requirements
Roof & exterior — condition, leaks, deterioration and other readily apparent issues
Utilities & major systems — heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical, RADON IN IL! This one’s common and important here to know if the home has a mitigation system in place and working Sump pump .
Water intrusion/moisture — signs of leaks, damage or conditions affecting the home
Required repairs — if the VA appraisal identifies an MPR issue, repairs need to be completed before the loan can close.
Veterans: your VA benefit earned you the opportunity to buy a home—make sure you’re protecting that investment, too.
As a Military & Relocation Specialist, helping my veteran clients navigate the VA process is one of the parts of my job I’m most passionate about.
📲 VA buyer? Let’s make sure you know what to expect before you write the offer.
— Lauren Ordaz
REALTOR® | Military & Relocation Specialist
📍 924 W 75th Street, Suite 112
Naperville, IL 60565
📞 904.955.4728
📧 [email protected]
🌐 LaurenOrdaz.BHHSChicago.com
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