How to Buy a Fixer-Upper with One Loan: FHA 203(k), HomeStyle & VA Renovation Financing Made Simple
Buy a Fixer-Upper with Confidence: Expert Renovation Financing Backed by the Right Team
Most buyers don’t lose out on homes because of price.
They lose out because the house needs work—and no one knows how to fund it properly.
Outdated kitchens.
Failed inspections.
Major repairs that scare off lenders and kill deals.
That’s where renovation financing changes everything—and it’s exactly what I specialize in.
I’m excited to share that I’ve partnered with Makeover Consulting and Inspections to provide buyers and Realtors with a complete, reliable renovation loan solution, while continuing to lead the process as the renovation financing expert.
How the Makeover Mortgage Process Works (High Level)
Here’s what the process looks like in real life:
- Buyer is pre-approved for both purchase + renovation
- Home is identified (even if it needs work)
- Inspection + HUD consult define required repairs and desired upgrades
- Contractor provides a renovation bid
- Appraisal is based on the after-renovation value
- Loan closes with renovation funds held in escrow
- Repairs are completed after closing
- Buyer ends up with one mortgage and the home they actually want
No second loans. No scrambling for cash. No walking away from great homes.
Who This Helps Most
This partnership is especially powerful for:
- Buyers tired of losing bidding wars
- Clients shopping FHA or VA who hit inspection roadblocks
- Picky buyers who want a specific layout, kitchen, or features
- HGTV-style buyers who want to create—not just buy
- Realtors who want to stand out instead of blending in
If a home has good bones but bad finishes—or even major repair needs—this process can turn a “no” into a confident “yes.”
Renovation Loans Are Not a Side Product for Me—They’re a Specialty
Renovation loans are complex. They require:
- Advanced underwriting knowledge
- Contractor coordination
- Appraisals based on future value
- Strict timelines and compliance
- Problem-solving when inspections uncover issues
This is not something every lender—or loan officer—does well.
I specialize in:
- FHA 203(k) renovation loans
- Fannie Mae HomeStyle® renovation loans
- VA renovation loans
I also work with multiple renovation lenders, not just one. That flexibility allows me to structure each loan with the best program, best execution, and smoothest experience possible—instead of forcing deals into a single lender’s box.
Why This Partnership Makes Renovation Loans Work Better
Even the best renovation loan structure can fail without the right support on the ground.
That’s why my partnership with Makeover Consulting and Inspections matters.
Makeover Consulting specializes in renovation-focused inspections and HUD consulting. Their team often acts as both:
- Home inspector
- HUD renovation consultant
This streamlined approach:
- Speeds up timelines
- Reduces surprises after contract
- Creates cleaner scopes of work
- Helps contractors bid accurately
- Keeps loans moving toward closing
For buyers, it means clarity and confidence.
For Realtors, it means fewer dead deals and smoother transactions.
What Renovation Financing Allows Buyers to Do
With the right renovation loan, buyers can:
- Purchase homes that need repairs or updates
- Roll renovation costs into one mortgage
- Fix inspection issues after closing
- Customize kitchens, bathrooms, layouts, and finishes
- Address major repairs like roofing, HVAC, and structural items
- Compete less and negotiate more
Instead of fighting over turnkey homes, buyers gain access to a much larger pool of opportunities.
How the Renovation Loan Process Works
Here’s what the process looks like when done correctly:
- Buyer is pre-approved for purchase + renovation
- A home is identified—even if it needs work
- Inspection and HUD consulting define required repairs and desired upgrades
- A licensed renovation contractor provides bids
- The appraisal is based on the after-renovation value
- Renovation funds are escrowed at closing
- Repairs are completed after purchase
- Buyer makes one monthly mortgage payment
No second loans. No personal financing. No starting over.
Why Realtors Win with This Approach
Most Realtors offer the same basic services. Very few can confidently guide clients through renovation financing.
This partnership allows Realtors to:
- Say yes to more properties
- Save deals after tough inspections
- Help FHA and VA buyers succeed
- Reduce endless showings
- Stand out in a crowded market
- Deliver better outcomes for their clients
When buyers know they have renovation financing as an option, conversations change—and deals close.
Experience Is the Difference
Renovation loans don’t fail because buyers aren’t qualified.
They fail because the process is mishandled.
Having successfully funded renovation loans, I know how to:
- Structure deals correctly from day one
- Identify issues before they become deal-killers
- Match clients with the right lender
- Coordinate consultants, contractors, and Realtors
- Keep transactions moving when others stall
That experience—combined with the right inspection and consulting team—creates results.
Is Renovation Financing Right for You?
If you’re:
- A buyer considering an FHA 203(k), HomeStyle, or VA renovation loan
- Looking at a fixer-upper or outdated home
- A Realtor wanting to offer more solutions instead of limitations
Let’s talk.
You don’t need to wait for the perfect home.
With the right financing—and the right team—you can create it.
