08/04/2026
🏡 What Makes a Home “Mortgageable”?
Not every home qualifies for financing—even if a buyer loves it.
When a lender orders an appraisal, the appraiser isn’t just determining value. They also evaluate whether the property meets basic safety, security, and livability standards required by the loan program.
Here are a few things that can raise concerns:
🔹 Missing or damaged handrails on stairs
🔹 Peeling or chipped paint (especially on homes built before 1978)
🔹 Broken windows or exterior doors that won’t secure properly
🔹 Exposed wiring or other electrical hazards
🔹 Roofs with significant damage or active leaks
🔹 Non-functioning heating systems (where required)
🔹 Plumbing or septic issues
🔹 Unsafe decks, porches, or railings
🔹 Missing smoke or carbon monoxide detectors (depending on local requirements and loan program)
🔹 Health and safety hazards, such as mold, standing water, or structural concerns
The good news? Many of these items are repairable before closing, allowing the loan to move forward.
Every loan program has slightly different property requirements. FHA, VA, USDA, and Conventional loans don’t always evaluate the same issues in the same way.
💬 If you’re buying or selling a home and you’re unsure whether a property may qualify for financing, I’d be happy to help you understand what to look for before it becomes a surprise during the appraisal process.