RENOVATION FINANCING

Turn Fixer-Uppers Into Dream Homes

Finance both the purchase price and renovation costs in a single loan. The FHA 203k program makes it easy to buy and improve your home.

Why Choose a 203k Loan?

One Single Loan

Finance purchase price and renovations together with one monthly payment

Build Instant Equity

Renovations add value to your home immediately, building wealth faster

Low Down Payment

As low as 3.5% down on the total project cost, making it affordable

Interactive Tool

Calculate Your 203k Loan

See how much you can borrow and what your monthly payments might be

203k Renovation Calculator

Loan Options

Choose Your 203k Path

Two options designed for different renovation needs

Standard 203k

FULL RENOVATION

For major structural work and large-scale renovations over $35,000. Perfect for properties that need significant improvements or additions.

Renovation Range:

$35,000+

Ideal For:

  • Structural repairs (foundation, roof)
  • Room additions or major remodels
  • Complete kitchen/bathroom renovations
  • HVAC, plumbing, electrical upgrades

Note: Requires FHA-approved consultant to oversee work and draw inspections.

Limited 203k

STREAMLINED

A simpler, faster process for cosmetic updates and non-structural improvements under $35,000. Perfect for move-in ready updates.

Renovation Range:

Up to $35,000

Ideal For:

  • Painting, flooring, new appliances
  • New cabinets, countertops, fixtures
  • Minor repairs and updates
  • Landscaping and energy efficiency

Note: No consultant required. Faster approval and simpler process.

The Process

How the 203k Process Works

From pre-approval to move-in, here's your step-by-step guide

1

Get Pre-Approved

Apply for your 203k loan and get pre-approved. We'll determine your budget including renovation costs.

2

Find Your Property

Search for homes that need work. Your pre-approval shows sellers you're serious and ready to close.

3

Plan Renovations

Work with contractors to create detailed work plans and cost estimates for FHA approval.

4

Close & Renovate

Close on your loan. Renovation funds are held in escrow and released as work is completed.

After Closing: The Renovation Phase

Escrow Account: Renovation funds are placed in an escrow account and released to contractors as work milestones are completed and inspected.

Timeline: Most renovations must be completed within 6 months of closing, though extensions may be available.

Inspections: For Standard 203k, a consultant inspects work progress. For Limited 203k, the lender may conduct inspections.

Move-In: Once renovations are complete and approved, you can move into your beautifully updated home!

Success Stories

203k Transformations

See how homebuyers used 203k loans to create their dream homes

Purchase Price

$180,000

Renovation

$40,000

After Renovation Value

$250,000

+$30,000 instant equity

Kitchen & Bath Upgrade

Completely renovated outdated kitchen and two bathrooms, adding modern finishes that increased the home's value significantly.

Purchase Price

$200,000

Renovation

$75,000

After Renovation Value

$310,000

+$35,000 instant equity

Master Suite Addition

Added a 400 sq ft master bedroom suite with walk-in closet and luxury bathroom, transforming a 3-bed into a 4-bed home.

Purchase Price

$150,000

Renovation

$25,000

After Renovation Value

$195,000

+$20,000 instant equity

Cosmetic Refresh

New flooring throughout, fresh paint, updated lighting fixtures, and modern appliances made this home move-in ready.

Qualification

203k Loan Requirements

What you need to qualify for a 203k renovation loan

Credit Score

Minimum 580 for 3.5% down payment. 500-579 may qualify with 10% down.

Down Payment

As low as 3.5% of the total project cost (purchase price + renovation budget).

Property Type

1-4 unit properties. Must be your primary residence and be livable within 60 days of closing.

Documentation

Detailed contractor bids, work plans, and specifications required for all renovation work.

Debt-to-Income Ratio

Your total monthly debt payments (including the new mortgage) should typically not exceed 43% of your gross monthly income. However, some flexibility exists based on compensating factors.

Pro Tip: Work with us early to understand your budget and get pre-approved before house hunting. This gives you a clear renovation budget and makes your offer more attractive to sellers.

Common Questions

203k Loan FAQ

How long does the 203k process take?

From application to closing typically takes 45-60 days, similar to a standard FHA loan but with additional time for renovation planning. The Limited 203k is faster than the Standard 203k since it doesn't require a consultant.

Can I live in the home during renovations?

It depends on the scope of work. For Limited 203k projects, you can usually move in right away. For Standard 203k with major structural work, you may need to wait until certain repairs are completed and the home is deemed livable.

What if renovation costs go over budget?

You'll need to pay any cost overruns out of pocket. That's why it's crucial to get detailed, accurate contractor bids upfront and include a contingency reserve (typically 10-20% of renovation costs) in your budget.

Do I need to hire a general contractor?

For Standard 203k loans, you typically need licensed contractors for major work. For Limited 203k, you may be able to do some minor work yourself, but most significant work still requires licensed professionals.

Can I use a 203k loan to buy a foreclosure or short sale?

Yes! 203k loans are perfect for foreclosures and distressed properties that need work. This is one of the few loan programs that allows you to finance repairs on properties that wouldn't qualify for traditional financing.

Can I do the work myself to save money?

DIY work is limited. You can do some non-structural work like painting or landscaping, but you cannot pay yourself. All major work must be done by licensed contractors. This protects both you and the lender by ensuring quality work.

Ready to Transform a Fixer-Upper?

Get pre-approved for a 203k loan today and start your renovation journey. Our experts will guide you through every step of the process.