VA appraisal fees in Hawaii are a required part of the VA home loan process, helping protect veterans by ensuring a property meets VA safety standards and is priced fairly — especially important in high-cost markets like Oʻahu and Maui.
This guide explains how VA appraisal fees work, how much they cost in Hawaiʻi, and what veterans should expect during the process.
Quick Summary
- VA appraisal fees are set by the VA, not the lender
- Fees vary by property type and island
- VA appraisals are different from home inspections
- The appraisal protects the veteran, not the bank
Key Takeaways
- VA appraisal fees are regulated by the VA
- Fees vary slightly by island and property type
- VA appraisals protect veterans — not lenders
- Local expertise helps avoid delays and surprises
Most Hawaii VA appraisal fees range from a few hundred dollars, depending on the property type and island. They are required, regulated by the VA, and designed to protect veterans from overpaying or buying unsafe homes.
What Is a VA Appraisal?
A VA appraisal is an evaluation ordered by the Department of Veterans Affairs to determine a home’s fair market value and confirm that it meets the VA’s Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs). The purpose of the appraisal is to protect veterans by ensuring the property is safe, structurally sound, and not overpriced for the local market. Unlike conventional appraisals, VA appraisals go beyond value alone and include basic health and safety standards designed to safeguard the veteran’s long-term investment.
VA Appraisal Fees in Hawaii
VA appraisal fees are set by the Department of Veterans Affairs, not by lenders or appraisers. This ensures consistent pricing and prevents veterans from being overcharged.
Typical VA Appraisal Fees in Hawaii
Fees can vary slightly by island and property type, but generally reflect:
- Higher travel and logistics costs
- Limited appraiser availability
- Hawaii’s unique property conditions
Oʻahu (Honolulu County)
- Covers Honolulu, Pearl City, Kapolei, Kailua, Kāneʻohe
- Most common VA appraisals in Hawaii
- Faster turnaround times due to higher appraiser availability
Maui County
- Includes Maui, Molokaʻi, and Lānaʻi
- Fees may be slightly higher due to travel and access
- Condos and rural properties may take longer
Hawaiʻi County (Big Island)
- Covers Hilo, Kona, Waimea, and rural areas
- Larger land parcels can affect timelines
- Lava zones and rural access may impact appraisal complexity
Who Pays the VA Appraisal Fee?
In most cases:
- The buyer pays the VA appraisal fee upfront
- The fee can sometimes be paid by the seller or lender as a credit
- The fee cannot be rolled into the loan amount
This fee is non-refundable once the appraisal is ordered.
VA Appraisal vs Home Inspection
Many buyers confuse these — they are not the same.
VA Appraisal
- Required by the VA
- Focuses on value and safety
- Ordered through the VA portal
- Protects the veteran
Home Inspection
- Optional but strongly recommended
- More detailed evaluation of systems and structure
- Ordered by the buyer
- Protects long-term investment
A VA appraisal does not replace a home inspection.
VA Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs)
VA appraisers check for:
- Safe electrical, plumbing, and roofing
- Adequate access and utilities
- No major health or safety hazards
In Hawaii, common MPR considerations include:
- Roof condition due to sun and salt exposure
- Moisture, mold, and termite issues
- Access roads and easements for rural properties
What Happens If a Home Doesn’t Pass the VA Appraisal?
If issues are found:
- Repairs may be required before closing
- The seller can complete repairs
- In some cases, a reconsideration of value (ROV) may be requested
A knowledgeable VA loan specialist can help navigate this process efficiently.
Bottom Line: VA Appraisal Fees in Hawaii
VA appraisal fees are a small but important part of buying a home with a VA loan in Hawaii. They exist to protect veterans, ensure fair pricing, and confirm the home is safe to live in.
Understanding how the process works — especially in Hawaii’s unique market — helps avoid surprises and delays.
Your Trusted Hawaii VA Loan Specialist
Always putting clients and their families first.
Elias is a local Honolulu VA loan officer who helps service members and veterans navigate every step of the Hawaii VA home loan process — including VA appraisals and property requirements — with clarity and confidence.
VA appraisals in Hawaii can raise questions regarding property condition, repairs, timelines, and Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs), particularly in unique island markets such as Oʻahu, Maui, and the Big Island. Having a local VA loan specialist who understands how these appraisals work can help prevent delays and keep your transaction on track.
When you work with Elias, you’ll get:
Clear, step-by-step guidance through the VA appraisal process
Local insight into Hawaii-specific property standards
Competitive VA rates tailored to Hawaii buyers
If you want to understand what a VA appraiser looks for — or how to prepare a property before the appraisal — connect with a specialist who puts your goals first.
Call (808) 817-6416 to speak with a Hawaii VA loan specialist
Take the next step toward owning a home in paradise today!
