FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loans
Sometimes It Pays to Refinance
When we picture buying a home, it's easy to assume that the house is new and in great condition. However, that's not always the case. Many buyers decide to purchase a home that is significantly older, and not in the best condition. There could be a number of reasons for this kind of buy; the buyer is looking for a fixer-upper, the list price is affordable, etc.
Securing a mortgage for such a property wasn't always easy; the entire process could be very costly, with improvement loans that had high interest rates, short repayment terms, and balloon payments. With the FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loan, that's no longer the case. This mortgage product enables borrowers to finance the purchase or refinance of a home, along with its renovation or "rehabilitation" of their existing home. A Rehab Loan benefits borrowers, as well as lenders, since it insures a single, long term loan--whether its a fixed-rate or ARM-- that covers the purchase/refinance and renovation of a home.
The FHA's 203(k) program is also a good option in cases of federally declared natural disasters that cause property damage or destruction. Borrowers can use a rehab loan in such situations, to finance the necessary renovations.
Advantages of a Rehab Refinance
There are a number of advantages to refinancing with the FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loan. With the FHA Rehab Loan, you have the option to refinance your property and create your own home equity with repairs and upgrades. This 203(k) allows you to buy an older house at a low price (and great interest rates). You are then able to renovate your home according to your own needs and style, while simultaneously increasing equity with the new improvements.
Additionally, the FHA 203(k) loan is a convenient way to purchase or refinance your home, without having a high credit score, making a large down payment, or having high interest rates. As with all FHA mortgage products, your home loan is insured, which allows for more leniency than a conventional loan. While section 203(k) insured loans save borrowers time and money, they also benefit the lender by allowing them to have the loan insured, even though the property has not yet been renovated, and the condition and value of the house may not yet offer adequate security.
Eligible Rehabilitation Activities
There are limitations and restrictions on the amount, types, and costs of rehabilitation covered under the FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loan, which range from relatively minor expenses, to virtual reconstruction of the property. For example, the cost of renovation must be at least $5,000. Whereas on the high end, a property that has been demolished or will be razed as part of rehabilitation is eligible under 203(k), provided that the existing foundation remains in place.
According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the types of rehabilitation that borrowers may make using Section 203(k) financing include:
- Structural alterations and reconstruction
- Modernization and improvements to the home's function
- Elimination of health and safety hazards
- Changes that improve appearance and eliminate obsolescence
- Reconditioning or replacing plumbing; installing a well and/or septic system
- Adding or replacing roofing, gutters, and downspouts
- Adding or replacing floors and/or floor treatments
- Major landscape work and site improvements
- Enhancing accessibility for a disabled person
- Making energy conservation improvements
HUD also requires that properties financed under this program meet certain basic energy efficiency and structural standards.
FHA Refinance Options for Homeowners
SEE YOUR CREDIT SCORES From All 3 Bureaus
Do you know what's on your credit report?
Learn what your score means.
FHA Loan Articles and Mortgage News
July 7, 2019 - There are many uses for an FHA mortgage loan, and not everyone is aware of those options. You are not limited to buying a typical suburban house with an FHA loan whether you are a first-time home buyer or a repeat mortgage borrower.
July 4, 2019 - FHA loan rules permit down payment help that meets FHA and lender requirements. You can get down payment gift fund help from a state agency or other government program, parents, and employers.
July 3, 2019 - Borrowers should be prepared to come to the home loan process with no fewer than 12 consecutive months of on-time payments on all financial obligations. Lenders want to see patterns of responsible credit use and reliable payments.
July 1, 2019 - With rates so low, what do you need to know about refinancing to get a better mortgage rate? If you are shopping around for a loan and have not yet applied for a refinance, the rates you see today may change tomorrow.
June 24, 2019 - If you are a homeowner experiencing financial difficulty, you have options with your mortgage that can help you get into a lower interest rate or monthly payment. But borrowers should be careful not to let financial hardship spoil their chances to get a more affordable mortgage.
FHA.com Reviews
FHA.com is a one-stop resource for homebuyers who want to make the best decisions when it comes to their mortgage. With our detailed, mobile-friendly site, individuals can access information about different FHA products, the latest loan limits, and numerous other resources to make their homebuying experience easier. Take a look at some of the reviews from other FHA.com visitors!
