Answers by Pam Smith

There are a number of really good options for you. Depending on your credit score and whether you go FHA or conventional, you could look into the FHA 203(k) loan for major renovations, or the FHA 203(k)(s) loan for renovations that are more cosmetic in nature. If you wish to get a conventional loan, Fannie Mae offers the HomeStyle Renovation Loan. Another couple of conventional loan options: Freddie Mac offers the CHOICERenovation Loan and the CHOICEReno eXPress loans. All those products allow you to borrow money based on the purchase price plus the expected cost of the renovations, with down payments as low as 3% of the the total expected cost. Visit with your lender to determine which loan product is best for you.