Historic Home Renovation

Century homes are the soul of renovation lending — and the trickiest to finance. Their systems (wiring, plumbing, heating, roofs) are exactly what the 203k Standard was designed to modernize, and its consultant-driven process suits complex older structures.

In designated historic districts, local commissions may govern exterior changes, materials, and windows. Renovation loans work fine alongside those rules, but your scope and contractor bids must reflect approved materials — which can cost more. Build the approval timeline into your plan before locking a closing date.

Pairing a 203k with an FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage is a natural fit here: insulation, air sealing, and high-efficiency systems address the chronic weakness of historic homes while the character-defining work gets done.