REMODELING YOUR HOME THIS SUMMER
- johnathanmcquoid
- Jan 18
- 2 min read
Summer isn’t just for relaxing — it’s also one of the best times to tackle home renovations. Whether it’s a simple refresh or a major remodel, smart improvements can increase comfort, boost property value, and offer strong returns when it’s time to sell.
Here’s how homeowners can plan and finance renovations effectively 👇
1️⃣ Cash or credit for smaller projects
Smaller upgrades under $5,000 can often be handled with savings or a credit card.
✔️ paint and cosmetic updates
✔️ decluttering and staging
✔️ light repairs or touch-ups
These improvements often produce strong resale value with minimal investment.
2️⃣ Personal loans or lines of credit for mid-sized projects
For projects above $5,000, financing becomes more important.
✔️ personal loans offer predictable payments
✔️ unsecured lines of credit offer flexibility
✔️ interest is typically lower than credit cards
A line of credit works well for ongoing or multi-stage renovations where funds are accessed gradually.
3️⃣ Secured lines of credit and home-equity loans
Larger renovations may require access to home equity.
✔️ lower interest rates
✔️ higher borrowing limits
✔️ interest only on what you use
These products often require strong credit, up-to-date income, and legal registration fees.
Homeowners with sufficient equity can leverage financing at a lower cost than unsecured borrowing.
4️⃣ Refinancing your mortgage to fund major renovations
Refinancing can be ideal for large-scale renovation plans.
✔️ access renovation funds at mortgage rates
✔️ consolidate higher-interest debt
✔️ spread repayment over a longer period
Lower interest costs can make major improvements more affordable and easier to manage long-term.
5️⃣ Adding renovation costs into a new home purchase
When buying a property that needs updates, the renovation budget can be added to the mortgage.
✔️ purchase price + improvement budget
✔️ one mortgage payment
✔️ lower rate than loans or credit cards
This approach allows buyers to transform a fixer-upper without taking on additional high-interest debt.
6️⃣ Grants and rebates for energy-efficient upgrades
Federal, provincial, and municipal programs can help reduce project costs.
✔️ insulation upgrades
✔️ energy-efficient windows
✔️ heating and cooling improvements
✔️ renewable-energy installations
Programs vary by region, and some offer rebates, refunds, or reduced insurance premiums for qualifying improvements.
💬 Final Thought
Renovations can improve comfort, boost value, and modernize your home — but choosing the right financing method is just as important as choosing the right project. A clear plan, proper budgeting, and the right funding option will keep your renovation on track.
For a full review of renovation financing options and current lender programs, send The Frontline Mortgage Group a message anytime.
