What’s the maximum home improvement loan amount you can get?

Home improvement loans are funded by online lenders, banks, credit unions and other financial institutions. Like other types of loans, the amount you can borrow will depend on the lender, the loan type and your creditworthiness.

For example, personal loans may let you borrow up to $100,000. With a home equity loan, you may borrow up to 80 percent of your property’s value.

The better your credit score, the more likely you will get approved for a larger home improvement loan. Research the pros and cons of home improvement loans before committing to a large loan.

How much home improvement loan can I get?

Like with many personal loans, the amount you qualify for will depend on your credit score and debt-to-income ratio (DTI). A lower DTI is better because it tells lenders you can afford to take on additional payments.

The maximum amount of money you can get will also depend on the type of home improvement loan you apply for.

• Home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) are based on the equity you’ve built in the property. You can borrow against it, using your home to secure the loan. Usually, you are limited to 80 percent of your property value.
• A personal loan for home improvement is usually unsecured. Approval relies on your personal finances. They can be used for home improvement, although loan amounts rarely exceed $100,000.
• An FHA 203(k) loan, also known as a mortgage rehab loan, allows you to borrow for the home’s mortgage and renovations in one loan. There are two types. One is for projects less than $35,000, and the other is for bigger, more expensive renovations.

Common home improvement loan amounts

Home improvement loans typically range from $1,000 to $100,000. You may need excellent credit or a co-signer to get a home improvement loan if you want a larger amount.

But don’t just borrow the maximum amount available It’s smarter to borrow the amount you need for your project. Add a percentage to cover unexpected expenses.

It’s straightforward to get bids for certain home improvement projects, like replacing your roof. Estimating costs on more complicated projects, like a kitchen remodel, can be harder.

When you truly can’t get a good estimate, a HELOC or personal line of credit may be a more flexible and affordable option.

What influences the amount you can borrow?

The amount you can borrow will depend on the type of loan you are applying for. Government loans often have more stringent requirements than those from private lenders. Most often the amount you can borrow is determined by:

• The loan type. Loans that use your home’s equity will allow you to borrow more than an unsecured home improvement loan.
• Your home’s current value. If you choose a home equity loan or HELOC, the current value of your property may increase your equity, which in turn can increase how much you are eligible for.
• Your location. Since your location influences your home’s value and the return on home improvement projects, lenders may consider where you live when determining what you qualify for.
• Your personal finances. Lenders consider multiple aspects of your personal finances, but your credit score and your debt-to-income ratio are more important. Focus on increasing your score and dropping your DTI to qualify for larger amounts.

Be careful how much you borrow

When considering a renovation or project, use a loan calculator to estimate your monthly payments. You want to avoid borrowing more than your property is (or will be) worth. And you should ensure your monthly payments are manageable.

In addition, a project budget will help you plan for the complete cost of your renovation. This can make qualifying for the amount you need easier — or determine if saving up is the better route.