An Agent recently asked me if a VA (Veterans Administration) Inspection was more thorough than a standard home inspection. I thought it was a great question, and one that would be educational to all Agents. I realize that there may not be many Gulf front homes that qualify for VA or FHA inspections, but a lot of Agents from the Beach are now showing houses that may qualify for these federal programs...

True or False? Veterans Administration (VA) inspections replace the standard pre-purchase home inspection.

FALSE - During my research for this answer, I spoke with a local appraiser who performs VA inspections, and he was kind enough to provide me with the 2006 Construction and Valuation Training Guide, published by the VA Regional Loan Center, in St. Petersburg, Florida. I also spent a lot of time on the Veterans Affairs Website. Under the FAQ's about the VA Loan program, one question specifically asks: "Will the appraiser make sure everything is OK, with the home I am buying?" The answer is straight forward: "No. The appraiser is not an inspector." Here's the link to verify the information for yourself www.homeloans.va.gov/faqcv.htm. For additional information about VA Home Loans, I recommend you review the publication entitled "A Quick Guide for Homebuyers and Real Estate Professionals" also found on the VA Website at www.homeloans.va.gov/pdf/26-91-1.pdf.

Carrie Campbell at St. Joe Community Sales