Whether you're a homeowner or a homebuyer, you may have a list of significant renovations you'd like to get started on. Even minor repairs such as a new paint job or bathroom plumbing issues may leave you wishing for a change. But, if you're unsure how to fund those changes, the solution may be an FHA 203(k) loan!
WHAT IS AN FHA 203(k) Rehab Mortgage Loan
FHA 203(k) loans are part of the larger Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgage program. They're federally backed and designed to help borrowers who would benefit from flexible credit and debt-to-income ratio requirements.
While the application of the funds you receive is wide-ranging, there are some requirements you'll want to consider. FHA 203(k) loans:
- Are only applicable to primary residences
- Focus on repairs and structural changes
- Establish an escrow account that holds the money for your contractor
TYPES OF FHA 203(k) LOANS (Standard and Limited)
You've got a renovation in mind and would like to use an FHA 203(k) loan. Great. The next step is deciding which to choose. There are two kinds of FHA 203(k) loans: The limited (formerly known as the streamline 203(k) and the standard.
FHA 203(k) limited:
As the name may suggest, this loan caps its funding at $35,000 and will help fund cosmetic changes. You can think of these changes as ones that can be made while you're still living at home. For example, you can fund new carpeting, a fresh coat of paint, or appliance purchase and installation.
FHA 203(k) standard:
These loans fund major renovations or structural changes that cost at least $5,000. The cap varies depending on the community, but you can replace, construct, or demolish different parts of your home with this loan option. With this loan, you can think big! Examples of projects you can take on are room additions, extensive landscaping projects, or improving disabled accessibility.
The benefits and uses OF FHA 203(k) LOANS
FHA 203(k) rehab mortgages offer several benefits and applications that customers should consider as they shop around for the right loan solutions. Here are a few to think over.
- FHA 203(k) loans are meant for individuals who may not qualify for conventional/privately backed renovation loans. They offer competitive rates and provide funding even if a borrower has a less-than-perfect credit history.
- An FHA 203(k) mortgage is ideal for many homebuyers who haven't yet saved up enough for their dream home. That's because you can combine this renovation loan with a purchase loan, pay only one set of closing costs and upgrade your home before you even move in! With this buying tactic, you can purchase a low-cost fixer-upper and turn it into a home you'll love.
- You can make repairs before they become costly. Minor electrical or plumbing problems can seem like a nuisance that you don't have the money for. But those issues can become expensive if they aren't handled right away. Using an FHA 203(k) loan means having the money you need to address the small things before they get big!
As a mortgage professional in one of the nation's top renovation lenders, I understand how important it is to access the right loan for your needs. My mission is to provide an FHA 203(k) rehab mortgage process that is informative, simple, and rewarding.
To learn more about FHA 203(k) loans, contact me today!