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Appraisal

What repairs are required for FHA?

Short answer

Anything the appraiser flags as a safety, security, or structural issue. Common: peeling paint on pre-1978 homes, broken systems, exposed wiring, missing handrails, roof at end of life.

Plain-English explanation

Required repairs must be completed before closing. Minor cosmetic issues are not flagged. Major issues that the seller refuses to address often kill the FHA deal on that house.

Practical example

Aged roof, peeling exterior paint on a pre-1978 home, broken water heater, missing handrails on an open staircase — these are the items most likely to be flagged. Cosmetic issues (worn carpet, dated kitchen) are usually not.

What can change the answer?

Property condition, repair requirements, condo project approval status, and seller willingness to address flagged repairs can change the answer.

Your next step

Talk through the property before you write

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Educational only. FHA guidelines, lender overlays, rates, fees, and underwriting requirements can change. Final eligibility depends on full underwriting review.