VA loans require a VA appraisal that confirms the home meets the VA's Minimum Property Requirements (safe, sound, and sanitary), and in much of the country a termite / wood-destroying-organism (WDO) inspection. A general home inspection is optional but smart. Who pays for the termite inspection varies by state and is often negotiable in the contract. Sam Timlick, NMLS# 2776469, confirms exactly what applies to your purchase.
The VA appraisal and Minimum Property Requirements
A VA appraisal does two things: it establishes the home's value, and it checks that the property meets the VA's Minimum Property Requirements — essentially that the home is safe, structurally sound, and sanitary. It is not the same as a home inspection (which looks at condition in detail and is your choice). If the appraisal flags certain issues, they typically need to be addressed before closing.
The termite / WDO inspection
In much of the Southeast, including East Tennessee, a termite or wood-destroying-organism inspection is commonly required on a VA purchase. Who is allowed to pay for it can vary by state and by the terms of your contract, and it's frequently a negotiable item between buyer and seller. Rather than guess, I'll tell you exactly how it works for your specific deal.
How I help you stay ahead of it
None of this is a problem when your lender and agent plan for it up front. I flag the required items early, line them up with your timeline, and keep your agent in the loop so nothing surprises anyone at the closing table. Buying with your VA benefit? Start with the VA loan overview, or if you're an agent, here's how I work with you.