How to Finance Home Improvements?

Financing a home improvement project involves a crucial decision-making process about how to fund it. There are multiple methods to finance a home remodel, ranging from utilizing the equity accrued in your home to non-equity options like personal loans and credit cards. In this article, we break down some popular options for how to finance your home improvements.

Utilizing Home Equity for Remodeling

Tapping into home equity entails either replacing your existing mortgage or obtaining a secondary home loan, using the funds specifically for the renovation. Typically, this financing option comes with single-digit interest rates, and the interest paid on home equity loans or credit lines might be tax-deductible if used for home improvements. Advantages include lower interest rates and potential tax deductions, but it necessitates a home appraisal and may incur closing costs. Additionally, it puts your home up as collateral, meaning the lender could take possession of your house if payments are not made.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

A HELOC functions as a credit line accessible as needed, with interest payments solely on the borrowed amount. It permits access to up to 85% of your home’s value minus the outstanding mortgage. Interest rates usually fluctuate, affecting monthly payments, and there’s typically a 10-year spending window, followed by a 20-year repayment period for the balance. Best suited when the renovation costs are uncertain, allowing flexibility in accessing funds.

Home Equity Loans

Similar to HELOCs, home equity loans offer borrowing up to around 85% of your home’s value minus existing debt. The key difference lies in receiving a lump sum upfront, repaid over a term, often 15 years or less, with fixed interest rates and monthly payments. Ideal when the renovation expenses are precisely known, offering structured repayment with fixed rates.

Cash-Out Refinance

This option involves replacing your current mortgage with a larger one and receiving the difference in cash for your renovation needs. It’s beneficial for large renovations on a home intended for long-term occupancy, ideally securing a lower interest rate than the existing mortgage.

Remodel Without Using Home Equity

While paying for renovations with available cash ensures interest-free completion and flexibility in budgeting, it can be a tall task for most families. There are other ways and sources to get the financing you need for your home improvement project.

3rd Party Personal Loans

Unsecured personal loans provide quick financing for homeowners. While interest rates range greatly, they offer faster funding compared to home equity options. Borrowers can pre-qualify for rates and repayment terms, allowing planning within a monthly budget. Suited for urgent repairs or immediate projects, especially when borrowing against home equity isn’t feasible.

Low-Interest Credit Cards

For minor home improvements, 0% APR credit cards offer an interest-free period, typically 15 to 18 months, for repayment. Good or excellent credit is required for qualification, and some cards offer rewards or special financing for home improvement purchases. Best used for smaller DIY or short-term projects within a limited budget. The key is to pay off the balance before the rate increases.

PJ Fitzpatrick Offers Home Improvement Financing

While PJ Fitzpatrick can replace your roof within a day, we understand you may not be able to pay as quickly. We provide convenient financing options and affordable payment plans, including reduced-rate programs for qualified homeowners in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Your dream project is within reach, give us a call at 1-877-246-4354 or contact us today to discuss your home improvement project and financing options.