So, you’ve done all your research on home improvement and which projects to tackle if you really want to make a buck later on in life when you decide to sell.
Lots of work has been done on that end to provide that kind of research to the public, and now you’re ready to throw your hat in the ring. The only problem comes down to money, specifically, the money you’re going to have to put in right now to make this all happen.
You might be dreaming of what kind of profit you can make from that new roof or remodeled kitchen, but how do you pay for these things up front?
Common wisdom will often suggest home improvement financing, and this is a great idea. But, is it right for you? You have to meet certain qualifications to be approved. Let’s review some more information now so you can know whether you should apply.
What Is Your Credit Score Like?
The first thing to know about home renovation financing is that it’s a loan like any other loan, so you’ll have to go through some vetting and be approved first.
Along with taking a look at your financials, job, and income, the lending institution will want to check your credit score and history. Now, what kind of score will be necessary here depends on what kind of loan you get and how much you need, but assume that most lenders are going to need you to be in the 600s or above.
The higher up you go in credit score numbers, the lonelier it gets. Few people have those coveted 800s or 850s. However, there are loans out there for people with low scores, too, so shop around.
Do You Know Your Costs?
Another point to consider before applying for home improvement financing is how much your projects will actually cost. Do you know exactly what you want? Are the materials available? Have you called contractors for estimates? Do you have those estimates in hand?
You’ll need somewhat of a ballpark figure so you can take that information to the lender and have them place you in the right program.
Also consider if there is any portion of the costs you can pay for yourself so you can end up borrowing, and owing, less to the lender in the end.
What Terms Are Available?
Finally, you have to be able to calculate your financial situation over the coming months and possibly even years. In that case, it will be helpful for you to understand a potential lender’s loan-repayment terms before committing.
Can you pay back the loan in five years? That will come with a certain interest rate. How about three years? That will probably have a lower interest rate, and if you can swing it, you might find that more attractive.
Understand all your options during the application process so your lender can fix you up with the most appropriate options for you.
If you comprehend everything involved in this, then maybe you should indeed apply for that financing. Once it’s paid off and gone, you can focus on what it will mean to sell your updated home and enjoy the profits.
