What Does an FHA Appraiser Look For? Guide for Idaho Realtors & Sellers

🏡 What Does an FHA Appraiser Look For? A Must-Read for Idaho Realtors and Sellers

If you’re selling a home in Idaho - whether it's in Boise, Meridian, Nampa, or anywhere in between - and your buyer is using an FHA loan, it's crucial to understand the FHA appraiser requirements in Idaho. One overlooked detail could delay or derail your deal, so let's talk about what appraisers look for and how sellers and realtors can prepare ahead of time.

So what does an FHA appraiser look for? And how can sellers and realtors prepare a home so it sails through the process without a hitch (or a peeling-paint panic attack)? Let's break it down.

🔍 First, What Is an FHA Appraisal?

An FHA appraisal isn't just about the home's value - it's also a health and safety inspection. Think of it as a mashup between an appraisal and a mini home inspection. The appraiser is making sure the home is:

• Livable

• Safe

• Structurally sound

• Compliant with HUD minimum property standards

They're not there to nitpick your paint color - but that peeling exterior paint from 1985? That could be a problem.

🧠 What FHA Appraisers Actually Look For

Here's a simplified version of what's on their radar:

✅ Health & Safety Must-Haves:

• Functioning utilities (water, electric, heating must be on and operational)

• No exposed wiring or electrical hazards

• Handrails on stairs with more than three steps

• No broken windows, cracked glass, or missing screens

• Smoke detectors in working order and at least 1 needs to be a Carbon Monoxide Detector

🏚️ Deal-Breakers:

• Peeling or chipping paint in ALL homes, but especially ones built before 1978 (hello, lead-based paint)

• Signs of moisture damage or mold

• Roof with less than 2 years of remaining life

• Foundation cracks or structural issues

• Unpermitted additions or garages converted into apartments (FHA doesn't like those surprises)

🛠️ Quick Fixes Before the Appraiser Arrives

Sellers: Want your sale to go smoothly? Realtors: Want fewer repair addendums and delays? Here's what to do before the appraiser steps in:

• Paint over any chipping paint (especially outside)

• Secure loose handrails or steps

• Replace broken windows or cracked panes

• Make sure all appliances and plumbing work

• Open crawl spaces and attics for easy inspection

• Label your electrical panel and check for any "do-it-yourself" wiring nightmares

🧑‍💼 Why Realtors and Sellers Should Care

An FHA buyer is still a strong, qualified buyer - but their loan comes with strings. If your listing doesn't meet FHA appraisal standards, the deal can get delayed or fall apart.

Prepping your listing for FHA appraisal standards before you go live helps your seller avoid surprises and helps you, the agent, close deals faster. (And trust us - no one likes racing to repaint a shed three days before closing.)

✅ The Bottom Line for Idaho Sellers and Realtors

FHA buyers are everywhere in today's market - and they're backed by a solid, government-insured loan. But the appraisal process has unique quirks.

By understanding what the appraiser is looking for and addressing small issues early, you can protect your deal, keep your buyer happy, and make your life a lot easier.

📞 Need Help Navigating FHA Loans?

Whether you're listing a property or working with an FHA buyer, 1st Choice Mortgage has your back. We help guide sellers and agents through the FHA process - appraisals, repairs, and all.

Checklist…yep we got you covered: FHA/VA/RD Pre-Appraisal Inspection Checklist for Idaho Homes

👉 Contact us today to learn more or get a pre-listing consultation for your seller!