Renovation Loans—Learn Why A Renovation Loan Might Be Right For You...

There are basically two types of renovation loans that may be of interest to you if you were purchasing a home (or refinancing if you are an existing homeowner) that needed certain repairs in order to meet your condition of livability. 


Below we will discuss them both so that you have a practical understanding that will further educate you on whether either of those loan types might be appropriate for you and your family.

1) FHA 203k Renovation Loan

2) Fannie Mae Renovation Loan

If you were to find a home in the right area and the home was not up-to-date and lacked certain features that you desire—an FHA 203(k) loan (FHA Financing) or a Fannie Mae Renovation Loan (Conventional Financing)—might address your concerns. 


 An FHA 203(k) loan is basically an FHA loan (3.5% down payment needed) that combines a first mortgage with that of a renovation loan.   A Fannie Mae loan does basically the same thing—but it combines a conventional loan—with that of a renovation loan—and is often used on "Fannie Mae" properties that need renovations!

With both loans the projected rehabilitation costs are held in an escrow account and disbursed as work is completed and inspections are done. The final loan amount is based on the projected market value of the property when all repairs are completed—and you would effectively have only "one" loan.

By combining the loans you would in essence have one loan (making your payments more convenient and affordable—as well as increasing your interest deduction for tax purposes).


 With either loan—you could make the needed repairs or upgrades (within limits) that were needed to make the property—more to your—and your family's liking.

You can utilize a renovation loan (if you qualify) for a home that you anticipate purchasing that needs repairs—or your current home—you would have to refinance your existing loan(s) into a renovation loan.

If you are currently looking at and considering purchasing a home that you really like—but the home is in disrepair or outdated in a few areas—a renovation loan may be appropriate.


Always realize that you can’t use it to add a pool, basketball court—and the like.

Keep in mind that a renovation loan must be utilized for certain repairs such as painting, bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, adding a deck or additional living areas—and can even include new appliances, HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical and other areas specifically outlined


You can make changes to improve the functionality of the home—as well as modernize an outdated home.


In addition—the loan can be used to eliminate health hazards and improve safety, improve the appearance of the home, repair or replace a well or septic system, repair or replace roofing, repair or replace gutters and downspouts, repair or replace flooring, tiling and carpeting—as well as making the home more accessible for the disabled. 

As you might expect a renovation loan is more complex than a traditional loan due to the additional paperwork and the requirement that the repairs are done to a certain standard—and are to be completed in a certain time frame. 


You would be involved with not only the lender—but also builders and their subcontractors, lender representatives—appraisers and possibly other parties.


In some cases you would not be able to move into the property until after the repairs were completed—which in some cases could be several months after closing.

Key questions you must ask yourself if you are considering a renovation loan include the following:

•          Is the style and functionality of the home to our liking—and can a renovation loan—help alleviate that problem?

•          Can we afford the property after the renovation loan is added to the loan amount—and can the repairs that are needed be done based on the amount of the renovation loan?

•          Are there repairs that can wait—or is the replacement of the item absolutely necessary at this time to make the property more livable for us?

•          How old is the structure—including appliances, HVAC system, plumbing, water heater, electrical system and the like?

•          Has the property been properly maintained—the property disclosure statement will offer clues?
  
  

Know that the primary reason that most consumers  utilize renovation loans is to bring in a more modern style or add more features to their home!

Also, keep energy use in mind at the time of your purchase—as high energy bills can offset your low mortgage payment. 


Are there old appliances, HVAC, water heaters etcetera on the property?  Furnaces often last 20 years and Central Air systems often last 15 years—on average! Does the electrical wiring in the home that you are considering need to be replaced?


Cement patios or brick pavers—properly installed can last in excess of 25 years—and a wood deck if properly maintained can last 15 years or so. 

Also keep in mind that if you do decide to obtain either one of the loan types—be sure you are dealing with a loan officer who has experience in the process.


  By doing so you can make a smoother transition as the more experience a loan officer and lender has—the smoother the process should be for you.

Also, it is important that you know your credit position upfront prior to obtaining a renovation loan—or any loan.

By doing so—you put yourself and your family in control—which is the way it should be!

If you need to further improve your credit—or educate yourself on your finances in general—be sure to navigate this site in an effective manner. 

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