3 Types of Home Improvement Loans

by | Apr 27, 2024 | Home Improvement

So, you’re thinking about a home renovation project? That’s awesome! But you’re wondering about the financial side of things. We know that choosing the right loan can make a big difference in your renovation journey, whether you’re buying a fixer-upper or looking to finance home improvements for your current home. Therefore, we’ve put together a comprehensive, side-by-side comparison of 3 types of home improvement loans: FHA 203(k), Fannie Mae HomeStyle, and Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Loans. Importantly, each of these options has its unique benefits and requirements. Ultimately, we aim to simplify your decision-making process, helping you choose the one that aligns best with your renovation goals and financial situation.

Government-Backed and Government-Sponsored Loans: Thank You, Uncle Sam!

First things first. Let’s begin with how these 3 types of home improvement loans are related to the federal government. Specifically, the FHA 203(k) loan is a government-backed product, meaning the Federal government guarantees it. This guarantee offers a degree of security to lenders, thus potentially resulting in more favorable loan terms for borrowers.

On the other hand, the Fannie Mae HomeStyle and Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Loans take a slightly different approach. They are government-sponsored, conventional loans. Although they are not directly backed by the Federal Government, these loans are supported by government-sponsored entities (GSEs). Moreover, these GSEs, namely Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, operate under a congressional charter. Their primary role is to inject liquidity into the housing market, which they accomplish by supplying money through secondary market mortgages.

Comparison at a Glance

FHA 203(k)
Loan:

Best suited for borrowers with lower credit scores and who are purchasing a primary residence. It allows for both minor and major renovations but excludes luxury improvements. The program is more flexible in terms of credit requirements but requires mortgage insurance regardless of the down payment.

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan:

Ideal for borrowers with higher credit scores who are looking to finance both the purchase and renovation of a property, including luxury items. It offers more flexibility in terms of property type, including investment properties and second homes.

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage:

Similar to the HomeStyle loan in many respects, it is suitable for borrowers looking for a conventional loan option when purchasing and renovating a property. Like the HomeStyle loan, it allows for a wide range of renovations, including luxury items, but has its own set of lender-specific requirements.

FHA 203(k) Loan

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage

Loan Type

FHA 203(k) Loan

Government-backed

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan

Conventional

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage

Conventional

Credit Score Requirement

FHA 203(k) Loan

Minimum typically 500-580

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan

Minimum usually 620

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage

Varies, generally 620-660

Down Payment

FHA 203(k) Loan

As low as 3.5%

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan

Varies (as low as 3% for primary, higher for investment properties)

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage

Varies based on lender requirements

Mortgage Insurance

FHA 203(k) Loan

Required, regardless of down payment

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan

Required if down payment is less than 20%; can be removed once equity reaches 20%

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage

Varies, generally similar to HomeStyle

Property Eligibility

FHA 203(k) Loan

Primary residences only

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan

Primary residences, second homes, investment properties

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage

Primary residences, second homes, investment properties

Renovation Limits

FHA 203(k) Loan

Can include luxury items, no specific cap but subject to loan limits

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan

Limited and Standard options, with caps on renovation costs

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage

Can include luxury items, no specific cap but subject to loan limits

Loan Limits

FHA 203(k) Loan

Subject to FHA limits

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan

Based on the after-renovated value, subject to conforming loan limits

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage

Based on the after-renovated value, subject to conforming loan limits

Eligible Improvements

FHA 203(k) Loan

Structural and non-structural, but no luxury improvements

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan

Broad range including structural, non-structural, and luxury items

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage

Broad range including structural, non-structural, and luxury items

Occupancy

FHA 203(k) Loan

Owner-occupied

Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Loan

Owner-occupied, second homes, investment properties

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Mortgage

Owner-occupied, second homes, investment properties

When choosing between these options, consider your credit score, the type of property you’re interested in, the scope of your renovation project, and whether you’re looking to include luxury renovations. Each program has its unique benefits and limitations. Therefore, take care in selecting the one that best fits your financial situation and renovation goals.

DISCOVER => Comparison of Limited and Standard FHA 203 (k) loans

For more information, visit the FHA 203(k) loan official page here.
Here is the official 203(k) calculator.

At Property.com, we’re here to guide you through every step of your real estate journey. Understanding the home improvement loans available in 2024 is just one of the many resources we provide to help you achieve your real estate goals.

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