What happens with lower appraised values on FHA, Conventional, and VA Mortgages

Didier Malagies • November 18, 2024

When a property appraisal comes in lower than the agreed-upon purchase price, it can complicate financing for the buyer. Here's what typically happens for FHA, Conventional, and VA mortgages:


1. FHA Mortgages

Impact of a Low Appraisal: The loan amount is limited to the lower of the purchase price or the appraised value. A low appraisal means the buyer must:


Renegotiate the purchase price with the seller.

Pay the difference in cash.

Walk away if the contract allows it.

Required Repairs: FHA appraisals assess both value and property condition. If issues arise (e.g., safety concerns), the seller or buyer must make repairs before closing.


Appraisal Stays with the Property: FHA appraisals are tied to the property for 120 days. If a different FHA buyer comes along within that period, they inherit the appraisal value.


2. Conventional Mortgages

Impact of a Low Appraisal: Conventional loans also limit the loan amount to the appraised value. If the appraisal is low, the buyer must:


Negotiate a lower price with the seller.

Increase their down payment to cover the gap.

Cancel the deal if allowed by a financing contingency.

Appraisal Appeal or Second Appraisal: Buyers or lenders can challenge the appraisal or request another one if there’s evidence the appraisal was inaccurate.


More Flexibility: Conventional loans often have fewer property condition requirements than FHA or VA loans, so the appraisal focuses more on market value.


3. VA Mortgages

Impact of a Low Appraisal: VA loans use a Notice of Value (NOV) to determine the property’s worth. If the NOV is lower than the purchase price, options include:


Negotiating a price reduction with the seller.

Paying the difference in cash.

Requesting a "Reconsideration of Value" (ROV) through the VA if there’s a strong case for higher value.

VA Escape Clause: VA loans include a clause allowing buyers to walk away if the property appraises lower than the purchase price without forfeiting their earnest money deposit.


Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs): If the property doesn't meet VA MPRs, repairs are required before closing.


General Buyer Options in Case of a Low Appraisal:

Renegotiate Price: Sellers may agree to lower the price to match the appraisal.

Bring Extra Cash: Buyers can cover the gap out-of-pocket.

Challenge the Appraisal: Provide additional data to support a higher value.

Walk Away: Utilize financing or appraisal contingencies to exit the deal.

Would you like more details on how to handle a specific type of mortgage?



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