What is a 203k Loan? Renovation Home Loans Explained

Although it's not the kind of loan that is often in the headlines, a 203k loan is a valuable tool. It has the potential to transform a "hard to sell" or "fixer upper" property into a desirable one and offers a source of funds for anyone who can see the potential in a house that requires immediate improvements.

But it is not available to investors. Designed to make home renovation options available to owner/occupants, this unique mortgage loan is also available to non-profit organizations. Although it can be used solely for home improvements, it is often bundled with standard mortgage funding, with maximum regional loan limits set by the Federal Housing Authority (FHA). The limitations are usually sufficient, but not meant for extravagant purchases.

Administered and guaranteed by the FHA, 203k loans are available nationwide; for condominium or townhome properties, the improvement funds are available for interior work only. Multi-family dwellings, with up to four units, are eligible under the 203k program, provided the buyer intends to occupy one of the units.

Any work contemplated under the 203k loan program must be completed within six months of closing. Funds are held in a separate escrow account and are paid directly to construction contractors. The work contemplated must be specified in detail, and must be completed by licensed contractors. In general, DIY improvements are not authorized, and luxury improvements are a "no no." In some cases, however, funds for temporary housing while work is underway can be included.

General Guidelines for a 203k Loan

Basic stipulations include:

• A minimum amount of at least $5,000
• Interest rate may be fixed or variable, with up to a 30-year repayment term
• Lenders may fund up to 110 percent of appraisal (calculated on expected value at completion)
• 203k loans are available with as little as 3.5 percent down
• Interest rates are generally up to one percent higher than for other mortgage loan types

Qualifying for a 203k

As with all mortgages, applicants must qualify based on income levels, employment stability and credit scores. While all are important, and documentation is necessary, lenders may be a bit more flexible than usual due to the FHA guarantee.

In general, the debt to income ratio should be 31—43 or better with an acceptable FICO score, but individual lenders have some leeway in approving loans for borrowers who are otherwise qualified, and for property that meets the guidelines.

The Negatives:

A 203k loan may simplify the purchase of a home in need of rehabilitation, and offers a way for willing borrowers to return sub-standard housing to prime condition, but it comes at a cost. There is a lot of paperwork involved, and it may be time-consuming. Actual construction compliance is also subject to regulation, and some contractors are not willing to participate.

An upfront mortgage insurance premium is required, and borrowers are subject to some other fees and requirements, depending on the specifics of work to be done, the property location and the individual lender. The 203k loan can facilitate the purchase of an otherwise-desirable property that might need major repairs, but it will definitely require patience!

Spreading repayment over the life of the loan is, perhaps, the greatest advantage. Even though the 203k can be a cost-effective way to buy a home at below-market price, you will want to explore all the options available and check with various lenders to assure that you get favorable terms. The 203k loan can, serve as a kind of "bridge" that benefits both seller and buyer equally. As for whether it's the right choice for a prospective buyer, the answer is almost always "it depends". Naturally, buyers need to weigh their options, but if this loan is a way for a buyer to get into a Vistas of Summerlin home they've always wanted, it might be worth a closer look.