Find the money for your
remodeling projects.

Cash and FHA Loans

Cash If you have a savings account large enough to pay cash, it's certainly the simplest payment option; there are no forms to fill out, no appraisals to undergo, and no waiting for approvals. The one drawback is that the money you spend could otherwise be earning interest in an investment. Financing your project and putting your cash into a higher-return investment might actually cost you less in the long run. Moreover, most home improvement loans are tax-deductible, whereas a remodeling project paid for in cash is not. Check with a financial adviser to see if this is a viable option.

Home Improvement Loan The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers two special loans for home improvements. The Title I loan lets you borrow up to $25,000 for a single-family dwelling at a fixed rate that the FHA insures against risk of default. You must go through an approved Title I lender.

The Section 203(k) loan is an option if you purchase a fixer-upper; you can receive a single, long-term, fixed or adjustable rate loan for the acquisition and the rehabilitation of the property. You must go through an FHA-approved lending institution for this loan.