Home Improvement Loan Calculator
Compare home equity loan, HELOC, personal loan and cash-out refinance for renovations.
Enter Details
Results
Related Calculators
Frequently Asked Questions
What home improvements add the most value?
Highest ROI renovations (national averages, Zonda Cost vs. Value 2025): garage door replacement 268% ROI, manufactured stone veneer 208%, minor kitchen remodel 113%, fiber-cement siding replacement 114% (vinyl siding 96.5%), window replacement 76%. Lower ROI but high enjoyment: major kitchen remodel 51%, bathroom addition 53%, primary suite addition 32%. Location matters enormously — the same project can have very different ROI depending on the local market.
Home equity loan vs HELOC vs personal loan?
Home equity loan: fixed rate, lump sum, best for large one-time projects, secured by your home. HELOC: variable rate, revolving credit line, best for ongoing projects or unknown costs. Personal loan: no collateral, higher rate, faster approval, best for smaller projects or renters. Cash-out refinance: replaces your mortgage, best if rates are lower than your current mortgage.
Do I need a permit for home renovations?
Permits are generally required for: structural changes, electrical work beyond simple fixture replacement, plumbing changes, HVAC work, additions, decks over certain heights, and window/door structural changes. Unpermitted work can: cause problems when selling (lenders and buyers require disclosure), void homeowners insurance for those areas, and create safety hazards. Always check local requirements before starting.