THE MAKEOVER BLOG
Renovation stories, useful ideas, and perspectives to help you see what comes next.
Contracting
Why you can’t use a family member as your 203k General Contractor. This is a question that comes up all the time. “Can my brother-in-law do the work?” or “My cousin is a great contractor — can he be the GC?” The answer i…
Read article : Why You Can’t Use a Family Member as Your 203k General ContractorConsulting
This is one of the most common surprises for 203k buyers. You are moving along excited about your renovation and then you see fees that can range from $700 up to $2,000 or more depending on the size of your project. Here…
Read article : Don’t get blindsided by the HUD Consultant Fee.Contracting
Never do extra work during your 203k without a change order. This is one of the most important rules in the entire 203k process. And one that gets many buyers into trouble. Once your renovation scope of work is approved…
Read article : Never Do Extra Work During Your 203k Without a Change OrderMortgage
This is one of the fastest ways to turn an exciting renovation into a stressful nightmare. Many buyers pick a lender because they have good rates or they already have a relationship with them. But if that lender does not…
Read article : Using a Lender Who Doesn’t Know 203k Loans Can Destroy Your ProjectContracting
This is a question that surprises many buyers. Can I just hire my own electricians, plumbers, and painters separately and save money? The answer is usually no. Here is why you need one General Contractor for a successful…
Read article : Why You Need ONE General Contractor for Your 203k (Not a Bunch of Subs)General
A lot of buyers get excited about a 203k because they want to save money by doing some of the work themselves. But here is the honest truth most people do not know until it is too late. On a Standard 203k loan, homeowner…
Read article : Can Homeowners Do Their Own Renovation Work on a 203k? (The Answer Might Surprise You)Contracting
This is one of the most important conversations you need to have with any contractor. If you do not explain the payment rules clearly from the beginning, you will likely face frustration, delays, and problems later. Here…
Read article : How Contractors Actually Get Paid on 203k Loans (Tell Them This Upfront)General
The number one 203k mistake families make. Jumping in without learning the full process. This is the mistake that causes more stress, delays, and extra costs than anything else. Families get excited when they find a fixe…
Read article : The #1 203k Mistake Families Make: Jumping In Without Learning the Full ProcessConsulting
This is one of the smartest moves you can make in your 203k project. And one of the most common mistakes buyers make. Many people wait until they are under contract or close to closing before involving the HUD consultant…
Read article : “Why You Must Bring in Your HUD Consultant on Day 1 (Not at the End)”
