can i buy a distressed house with a conventional loan?

[Alexander Rey]

Hello Jacksonville fl and BP community I just want to be clear on this, 

can i get a conventional loan on a house that need mayor repairs like drywall missing cabinets ect?

[Sarah Shockley]

It depends on the scale and type of renovation work needed. Problems that affect the "livability, soundness, or structural integrity" are what to look out for, also potential health and safety issues.

So for livability:

operational heating systems, 

operational plumbing fixtures with no major leaks, 

operational electric systems reasonably up to date (No Federal Pacific or Zinsco panel box, no aluminum wiring, etc)

Roof with no active leaks - usually with at least 5 years of estimated remaining life

For soundness/structural integrity:

No foundation issues - cracks, slanting floors, entire house leaning over, etc

No evidence of termite infestation

Health/Safety:

No mold

Peeling paint, especially in buildings built prior to 1978

There's probably more, but that's all I can think of offhand. Unfortunately I've never come across a comprehensive list online that I would send you (believe me, I've looked.)