With multiple renovation loan options available, many buyers ask the same question: which rehab loan is best for me? The answer depends on who you are, what you’re buying, and how extensive your renovation plans are.
This guide breaks down FHA vs HomeStyle vs VA renovation loans in a simple, buyer-focused way.
Buyer Type
Best Option
First-time / lower credit
Cosmetic renovations
Major structural work
High credit / luxury upgrades
Investors / second homes
Veterans
FHA 203k
Limited FHA 203k
Standard FHA 203k
HomeStyle
HomeStyle
VA renovation loan
Low down payment
Flexible credit guidelines
Ideal for first-time buyers
Owner-occupied only
Conventional renovation loan
Higher loan limits
Allows second homes and investments
Better for luxury upgrades
Zero down payment
No mortgage insurance
Contractor-only renovations
Limited lender availability
When comparing renovation loans, consider:
Credit profile
Down payment availability
Property type
Renovation scope
Occupancy plans
There is no one-size-fits-all solution—only the right fit for your situation.

Don’t guess.
Get a personalized rehab loan recommendation today and make a confident decision.
If you’d like to learn more, click the link below for more information.
HEY, I'M WALTER L. WILLIAMS
Walter L. Williams was born and raised in the City of Detroit. He has two associate degrees, one in Applied Science Architectural Building Construction Technology from Schoolcraft Collage and an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from Henry Ford Collage.
Walter has been in the Building Services business for over 30 years as an Architectural Draftsperson working for Detroit Water and Sewerage, City Engineering Department and his current companies, People, Places & Things LLC, Residential Design and Space Planning, PPT Inspections, Home and Building Inspections, My Rehab Consultant, FHA HUD 203K Consultant and one of the founders of New Decade - New Home Educational.



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Upcoming Events
Online Webinars (1 hour):
January 22, 2026
Workshops (3 - 4 Hours):
January 28, 2026 - ConED Course (3-hour course on FHA 203(k) Renovation Mortgages: Unlocking Potential for Real Estate Agents
Lunch and Learn Event:
February 6, 2026 at The Java House: How to Managing Multiple Business.
Workshops (3 - 4 Hours):
February 28, 2026 (Realtors 201 - 2 - 3-hour event) at Our Gathering Place in Detroit, MI (Title Connect) is our partner on this one.
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