In this guide, we’ll walk you through FHA property condition requirements, what appraisers are looking for, and how you can prepare your home to breeze through the process. Let’s dive in!
An FHA appraisal is required when a borrower is using an FHA loan to purchase a home. This appraisal serves two main purposes:
Think of FHA appraisers as middlemen for the government-backed loan. They’re not just evaluating whether your home is worth the mortgage amount—they’re also checking that it’s in good enough condition to reduce financial risks for the lender and ensure the buyer won’t inherit major problems.
Unlike a traditional home inspection (which dives deep into a property’s condition), the FHA appraisal focuses on whether the property meets specific health, safety, and structural requirements.
When it comes to FHA minimum property requirements, the focus is on three main things: safety, security, and soundness. Here’s what appraisers typically look for:
Your roof needs to be in good shape with no major leaks or damage. If it has less than two years of life left (or if it’s looking like a patchwork quilt), it may need repairs or replacement to qualify for FHA financing.
Everything needs to be in safe, working order. That means no exposed wiring, overloaded circuits, or leaky pipes. If you have any outdated systems, it’s worth addressing them before the appraisal.
The home needs an adequate heating system (permanent, not portable). Cooling systems are not always required, but for colder climates, the heater must work effectively to keep the home livable all year.
The house needs to stand strong—literally. Any major structural issues (like foundation cracks, sagging floors, or leaning walls) could derail the appraisal.
The home must have a safe, functional water supply and proper drainage. That includes clean water connected to a public or approved private source and an efficient septic or sewage system.
Every main living area of the house must have an accessible entrance and exit. Windows in bedrooms must open easily for emergency escape routes.
For homes built before 1978, lead-based paint is a big concern. Any peeling, cracking, or chipping paint needs to be remedied. Even newer homes with peeling paint will need a quick touch-up, as paint issues can indicate neglect.
Hazards such as broken stairs, loose handrails, and tripping risks are a no-go. The appraiser will also look out for pest infestations (like termites) and mold, both of which are red flags for FHA guidelines.
Prepping your home for an FHA appraisal might feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! With a little preparation, you can ensure the appraiser gives your property two thumbs up. Here’s how:
Take a walkthrough of your property with fresh eyes. Pretend you’re the appraiser and look for anything glaring—like damaged windows, exposed wiring, or a leaky faucet. Address these issues before the appraisal.
If something looks unsafe, fix it. Broken stairs, wobbly railings, or even overly cluttered hallways that could pose a hazard should be on your to-do list. Small safety upgrades can make a BIG difference.
Grab some sandpaper, a paint scraper, and a fresh coat of paint to cover peeling or chipping paint, especially if your home predates 1978. It’s a simple fix that appraisers always check for.
If your roof has serious issues or your foundation has visible cracks, call in a pro to make necessary repairs. These are must-fixes for FHA appraisals.
While cleanliness isn’t a dealbreaker, a clean home gives a better impression. Tidying up can help reveal how well the home has been cared for and make the appraiser’s job easier.
Make sure all systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC) are functional. Test faucets, check major appliances, and replace burnt-out lightbulbs. If you know a system isn’t working properly, get it fixed before the appraisal.
Keep the outside of your home in mind, too. Ensure decks and walkways are safe, railings are secure, and gutters are free of debris. The FHA appraiser will check these areas as well.
Even if you think your home is in great condition, there are some common issues that can pop up during an FHA appraisal. Here are a few to watch out for:
Prepping for an FHA appraisal isn’t just about securing loan approval—it’s about creating a safer, better-quality housing experience for everyone involved. By addressing major FHA property requirements ahead of time, you can save yourself time, money, and stress while ensuring a smoother appraisal process.
The FHA appraisal process may sound intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! Understanding the FHA property requirements and preparing your home accordingly will help you sail through it without a hitch.
Whether you’re a homeowner selling an FHA-ready property or a buyer wanting to secure your dream home, taking care of safety, soundness, and security will make all the difference. So grab your toolbelt (or call a pro)—and get your home FHA appraisal-ready today!