Most properties require some amount work to get into their desired shape, even newer ones. And just about everyone knows that home renovation projects aren’t cheap.

This is generally the case regardless of whether the job is a small one or a large one, or a matter of preference versus a mandatory fix.

It’s going to cost you some real money, especially if you’ve got plans to update a kitchen or bathroom, replace a leaky roof, and so on.

And at the moment, it seems everyone is addressing these issues at the same time, which has made it more difficult to hire a pro, and probably more expensive too.

Let’s talk about the many ways you can pay for it all, and which might be best depending on the situation.

Options to Pay for Home Improvements

Credit Cards

I’ve mentioned this method before as an option if the cost of renovations is manageable. Some won’t like it simply because credit cards are often regarded as the root of all evil.

But if you’re responsible and have excellent credit, there are amazing deals you can take advantage of that offer 0% APR for extended periods of time.

For example, if a credit card comes with 0% APR for 24 months and you borrow say $10,000 for home renovation costs, you can slowly pay it back entirely interest-free at around $400 per month.

That’s even better than a 2-3% mortgage rate, and you won’t have to tap into your equity, which would push your rate higher if refinancing.

The obvious downside here is if you don’t pay it back in full during the promo period, you are then subject to costly finance charges.

Credit card APRs are typically in the high teens or 20%+ range, so clearly if you aren’t getting promotional APR, the cost of credit is terrible.

Project Loans

Similar to credit cards are project loans, such as the ones offered by mega-retailers Home Depot and Lowe’s.

Both companies offer project financing that is intended to cover all costs of product purchases and installation for things like bath and kitchen remodels, additions, roof replacement, and more.

They come with fixed monthly payments so there’s no worry of the interest rate spiraling out of control.

However, they are typically limited to just one retailer, so if you need an outside contractor, or need products from other companies, you might be out of luck.

The interest rates can be pretty competitive relative to home equity products, and generally a lot better than regular credit card APRs.

Of course, you could argue to just use the 0% APR instead if the project isn’t too big.

Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

This is a go-to for homeowners looking to make repairs or improvements to their existing homes, but there are some downsides to consider.

For one, the interest rate is adjustable, tied to the prime rate, which is fairly low at the moment but expected to rise over time.

The other issue is that HELOC interest rates are typically higher than first mortgage rates, especially right now. So it’s not the cheapest way to borrow.

You also have to apply for one and while not as tough as a traditional mortgage, it won’t be nearly as easy as getting approved for a credit card.

The upside is that the credit line is completely flexible, and you can borrow on it like a credit card, pay it back whenever, and leave it untouched if need be.

You may also get a tax deduction if the proceeds are used to improve your home. Oh, and you can keep your ultra-low first mortgage rate untouched.

Home Equity Loan

These loans are pretty similar to HELOCs, the difference being that you’re borrowing a set amount from the lender upfront, instead of simply receiving a credit line.

That means you’ll pay interest on the full amount until it’s paid back. Of course, if you borrow more than you need you can pay it back sooner.

Additionally, the interest rate is fixed, which while a plus relative to an adjustable HELOC, typically means the interest rate will be higher to compensate.

Again, a tax deduction is a possibility to cut the cost, but it’s not necessarily the cheapest way to borrow.

Cash Out Refinance

Another common way to pay for home renovations is to take cash out of your property by tapping into the available home equity.

This is similar to a home equity loan/line, except you’re refinancing your first mortgage and replacing it with a new, larger one.

So if your outstanding loan balance is $250,000, and you need $50,000 for a project or two, you get a new loan for $300,000.

This can be a great method to get the financing you need for home improvements if mortgage rates are favorable.

For example, if your existing interest rate is 6%, and current rates are closer to 3.5%, it may be possible to get the cash you need and see your monthly mortgage payment barely budge.

That’s the ideal scenario, but in many cases you might be taking on a higher interest rate and monthly payment while restarting the clock on mortgage payoff.

Standard Refinance

This is a little outside the box, but it might be possible to execute a standard rate and term refinance where no cash is pulled out, and still free up money for renovations.

In other words, if you can refinance to a lower interest rate and/or refinance and drop mortgage insurance, the monthly savings could be used to fund your desired renovations.

Imagine if you’re able to lower monthly payments by $300-400 a month. You’ve now got extra cash on hand to fund the remodeling job you’ve been wanting to do.

You might just have to be patient as you sock away the savings and set them aside for your project.

Renovation Loans

You could also look into a renovation loan, such as the FHA 203k, HomeStyle Renovation loan from Fannie Mae, or the Renovation Mortgage from Freddie Mac.

While these types of loans do come with refinance options, they also allow borrowers to get a purchase loan and renovation loan in one shot, making life easier for home buyers in need of renovations or repairs.

Lenders will even let borrowers get funds based on the “as-completed” home price factoring in the proposed improvements that increase its value.

The downside to these programs is that there are lots of restrictions, paperwork, and the lender basically has a say in everything that goes on.

You also need to apply for and get approved for a home loan, but it can be a good option for a home buyer who purchases a fixer-upper.

This is especially true in today’s hot real estate market where diamonds in the rough might be easier to bid on without intense competition. Just steer clear of the money pits!

Personal Loans

Another option is to take out a personal loan. Lenders seem to be pitching these a lot these days, perhaps because they can offer more attractive terms (for themselves).

While you might be able to get the home renovation funds you need without going through what can be a complicated home loan process, you’ll likely pay for the convenience.

These types of loans are notoriously expensive relative to mortgage-related options.

Some pros include fixed payments and no fees, and arguably that you’re not putting your house at risk by using the collateral because it’s an unsecured loan.

However, the interest rate will likely be higher than other options, and the loan amount may also be limited.

Cash Savings

You could just keep things simple and use cash from your checking or savings account, assuming you’re one of the Americans who actually has some.

It might also be possible to use a windfall such as a year-end bonus, tax refund, or inheritance to pay for home renovations.

The upside here is that there is no loan, no interest, and no hoops to jump through or any applications to fill out.

You simply pay cash and buy whatever you want, and use whichever contractor you choose.

The potential downside is you might burn through your safety net in the process. That cash might also be better served in a retirement account where it can grow in value.

And using your home’s collateral for improvements means less of your money is at risk – you’re basically playing with the lender’s cash (house money).

Buy a Flip

Another alternative is to simply by a house that is completely renovated. Instead of having to put in the work yourself and live in a construction site, just buy a turnkey property.

The upside is no additional costs, no annoying noise and mess, and it’s ready to go immediately.

The clear negative here is that the property will be more expensive, all else being equal. And possibly unaffordable if your purchasing power is limited.

You’re also going to face intense competition if it’s located in a desirable market because everyone else will want it too.

Additionally, I always find that flips have hidden issues and/or don’t necessarily suit all tastes.

They are often also located in less-than-desirable locations, which is why they look so good to begin with.

Ultimately, it’s hard to find something that is exactly what you want and there’s a good chance you’ll want to make changes regardless.

Do It Yourself (DIY)

Lastly, if you’re handy, you can just do the stuff yourself a save a lot of money in the process.

While you’ll still need to pay for the costs of materials, it is the installation that is often the most expensive piece depending on the job at hand.

It can pay to learn how to do things yourself, and the internet has made it easier than ever to complete a variety of tasks without the help of a professional.

Of course, be sure not to get in over your head, especially if it involves potentially dangerous stuff like plumbing or electrical work.

Sometimes it’s better just to leave it to the pros…

But if were just talking about new paint, some added curb appeal, fixtures on existing cabinets and the like, it might be worth your while.

You’d be surprised at the big impact some small changes can make, whether it’s some fresh plants or new handles on your front door.

Renovate Smartly

Whichever method you choose to pay for home renovation, be smart about how you approach it.

Like you would a mortgage, comparison shop among vendors and contractors to ensure you get the best price.

You’d be shocked at how much prices can vary for the same job/work, especially if a contractor is involved.

The cost of materials, such as a slab or quartz, can also be negotiated, especially at smaller, non-corporate shops.

Also consider what you actually need to renovate and if it’s possible to skip some of the more expensive stuff while still getting most of what you want.

It might be possible to cut corners in a bathroom or a kitchen and replace only certain fixtures, or simply freshen things up by painting and/or replacing knobs and faucets.

If you plan to sell at some point in the relatively near future, also determine how any changes will impact the marketability of your home.

Try to stick to things that will actually increase your property value.

(photo: Marco Verch)