| I will show you that by using a little known government | | | | next step is to make an offer, remember you're |
| program called a 203(k) you can have instant equity. | | | | looking for a "fixer upper". Don't over pay for the |
| There is a little known government renovation loan | | | | property! This is the way you are going to get built in |
| called a 203(k). Don't let the numbers intimidate you, it's | | | | "instant equity" when you close on the property. |
| just the section of HUD's FHA programs. What this | | | | The appraiser then gives you an after renovation |
| program allows you to do is buy a home from a bank | | | | value. You will then see what work needs to be done |
| that needs work. Many foreclosures that are coming | | | | on the property to bring it up to that value. Usually it's |
| on the market are being trashed by the former | | | | somewhere between $15,000-$35,000. Almost |
| owners. Now, these repairs are mainly cosmetic such | | | | invariably you can count on increasing equity 150% of |
| as cabinets, carpet, plumbing fixtures, and paint, | | | | whatever your costs are for example if it cost |
| however, you can usually purchase these homes at a | | | | $20,000 dollars your equity will probably increase by |
| substantial discount. | | | | $30,000. |
| The first step is to get pre-approved by a lender for | | | | Real Example This is a transaction I just completed , |
| the maximum loan amount that you can qualify for. | | | | Purchase Price $375,000, repairs totaled $38,000, the |
| You may not need the maximum loan amount but you | | | | after Renovation Value was $413,000. Actual |
| need to know how high you can go on an offer. Then | | | | Appraised Value After Completion $450,000 so there |
| you need to locate a real estate agent that specializes | | | | was instant equity of $37,000. |
| in REO's (bank owned properties). Don't be surprised if | | | | As you can see the home in the above example was |
| the agent doesn't know anything about the program, | | | | purchased for a substantial discount compared to |
| your lender can give him or her all the information. The | | | | other homes in the neighborhood. |