Understanding VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) When Buying a Home in Colorado Springs

Quick Overview: What You Need to Know About VA Minimum Property Requirements Colorado Springs

• MPRs are VA guidelines that confirm a home is safe, structurally sound, and sanitary.
• Appraisers look closely at the roof, structure, heating, electrical, plumbing, water and sewer, access, and overall safety.
• Common fails include peeling paint, missing smoke or CO detectors, exposed wiring, roof leaks, and nonworking HVAC.
• Easy fixes include adding detectors, repairing outlet covers, touching up paint, repairing the roof, and securing loose handrails.
• Our veteran-led team helps VA buyers anticipate and avoid appraisal setbacks across Colorado Springs and El Paso County.

What Are VA Minimum Property Requirements?

The Department of Veterans Affairs requires any home financed with a VA loan to meet livability standards that protect buyers and lenders. The property must be:

• Safe: No hazards that could harm occupants.
• Structurally sound: Foundation, roof, and framing are solid.
• Sanitary: Plumbing, water, and waste systems function correctly.

These guidelines help ensure you are purchasing a move-in ready home rather than a project with hidden problems. For the complete list, review the official VA MPR guidelines on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website.

What the VA Appraiser Will Check

Roof and Structure

• No active leaks, sagging, or major damage.
• Foundation and framing are stable and free of significant cracks or settling.

Heating and Electrical Systems

• Permanent, functional heating in all rooms.
• Safe, grounded electrical with no exposed wires or missing covers.

Plumbing and Water

• Potable water with normal flow and pressure.
• Public sewer or septic systems in working order and compliant with local health rules.

Access and Livability

• Safe, all-weather access from a public or private road.
• All living areas, kitchens, and bathrooms are usable and accessible.

Safety and Sanitation

• Functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
• No broken stairs, missing rails, or trip hazards.
• No peeling lead-based paint on homes built before 1978.

Common MPR Issues That Can Delay Closing

Even well-kept homes in Colorado Springs can fail for small reasons:

• Missing or nonfunctioning smoke and CO detectors
• Peeling paint on older homes
• Exposed wiring or missing outlet and switch covers
• Nonworking HVAC or inadequate heat
• Roof leaks or damaged shingles
• Trip hazards or missing handrails
• Standing water or poor yard drainage
• Broken windows or damaged siding

Pro tip: Most of these issues are quick to fix. We help you address them before the appraisal to avoid delays.

VA MPR Pre-Appraisal Checklist for Buyers

• Test heat in every room to confirm the permanent system works.
• Install and test smoke and CO detectors.
• Replace missing outlet covers and address any exposed wiring.
• Run faucets and flush toilets to check for leaks and pressure.
• Inspect the roof, attic, and gutters for leaks or damage.
• Secure handrails and remove trip hazards.
• Scrape and repaint peeling paint, especially on pre-1978 homes.
• Confirm safe, unobstructed access from the road.

Why Work With Beaton Brothers for Your VA Loan Purchase

Not every agent understands VA loans, and not every home passes the first appraisal. As a veteran-founded team, we know the military lifestyle and the real estate systems that support it. Our experience spans hundreds of VA transactions across El Paso County, including Briargate, Falcon, Fountain, Security-Widefield, Powers Corridor, and near Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, Schriever SFB, and the U.S. Air Force Academy.

• Pre-offer guidance: We flag possible MPR issues before you write.
• Lender alignment: We collaborate with top VA lenders.
• Repair coordination: We negotiate and track fixes to protect your timeline.
• Local expertise: We know what Colorado Springs VA appraisers prioritize.

Tips To Sail Through MPRs

• Get a home inspection first. Find fixable issues early.
• Stay flexible on repairs. Many sellers will handle minor items.
• Ask your agent questions. A VA-savvy agent helps you choose the right home before you submit.

The VA’s Minimum Property Requirements are meant to protect you. With the right team, meeting the standard is simple and predictable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Work With Beaton Brothers Property Experts

Whether you plan to buy, sell, invest, or relocate, our team is ready to guide you. We are 5-Star Zillow Agents and trusted Colorado Springs REALTORS®.