Whether you’re buying a fixer-upper or simply looking to upgrade your home, a house renovation loan can help. But it’s important to determine how much the project will cost and what your loan options are before you start the process.
Where is the best place to get a home improvement loan?
You’ll want to begin by outlining your goals and estimating the costs associated with each project. That includes things like labor costs, supplies and potential contingency expenses. You’ll also want to consider your budget, including how much you can afford to pay each month. This will help you determine how much of a down payment and loan amount you might need.
A house renovation loan can be used to finance both purchase and repair costs for new construction or existing homes. The type of loan you need depends on the scope of your project and how much equity you have in your current home. If you don’t have much equity, you might want to consider a cash-out refinance or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). These loans can offer better terms than personal loans and are typically available at competitive mortgage rates.
Other financing options include an FHA 203(k) rehab loan or a Fannie Mae HomeStyle renovation loan. Both of these programs combine the purchase price and renovation costs into one mortgage, eliminating the need for a separate rehab loan and reducing closing costs. Alternatively, you might want to consider a jumbo rehab loan for higher-priced homes that don’t qualify for conventional mortgages. If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member, you might be able to take advantage of a VA renovation loan program. These loans allow qualified veterans and military families to buy a home and finance its renovation costs in one loan.