THE MAKEOVER BLOG
Renovation stories, useful ideas, and perspectives to help you see what comes next.
Mortgage
How does the 203k After-Repair Appraisal work? As-is value, future value, and what lenders are looking for. The appraisal on a 203k loan is different from a regular home purchase. It is actually two valuations in one rep…
Read article : How Does the 203k After-Repair Appraisal Work? As-is value, future value, and what lenders are looking for.Consulting
When do I bring in the HUD consultant and what do they cost? Timing, fees, and why early is critical. This is one of the most important decisions in your 203k project. Getting the timing right can save you time, money, a…
Read article : When Do I Bring in the HUD Consultant and What Do They Cost? Timing, fees, and why early is critical!Contracting
Changes during a 203k renovation are very common. The key is knowing exactly how to handle them so you do not blow your budget or delay the project. A change order is a formal, written request to add, remove, or modify w…
Read article : What happens if we need changes during the renovation? Change orders, extra costs, and staying on budget.Contracting
How does the 203k draw process actually work? Material draws, inspections, payments, and contractor cash flow. This is one of the most misunderstood parts of a 203k loan. Here is exactly how it works in simple terms. The…
Read article : How Does the 203k Draw Process Work? Material draws, inspections, payments, and contractor cash flow.Can I use a family member or be my own General Contractor on a 203k? The strict lender rules you need to know upfront. This is one of the most common questions buyers ask. And the answer is very important to understand b…
Read article : Can I Use a Family Member or Be My Own GC on a 203k? The strict lender rules you need to know upfrontMortgage
How much cash do I really need at closing for a 203k? This is one of the most asked questions. And one where a lot of buyers get surprised. Here is the honest breakdown of the cash you will typically need to bring to the…
Read article : How Much Cash Do I Really Need at Closing for a 203k? Down payment, fees, reserves, and everything no one tells you.General
Realistic 203k Timeline – How Long Does It Actually Take? One of the biggest questions families ask is this: How long will the whole 203k process actually take? Let’s talk real numbers. Here is a realistic timeline most…
Read article : Realistic 203k Timeline – How Long Does It Actually Take?Mortgage
The first question every family must ask their 203k lender. What is the exact step-by-step order of operations? This is the single most important question you can ask at the very beginning. Most buyers never ask it. They…
Read article : First Question Every Family Must Ask Their 203k Lender What is the exact step-by-step order of operations?Contracting
This single decision causes more stress, delays, and extra costs than almost anything else in a 203k project. Too many buyers see a low bid and automatically think they are saving money. Sometimes a low bid is legitimate…
Read article : The most expensive 203k mistake. Hiring the cheapest contractor.
