Home improvement: A guide to FHA Title I loans

by Daniel Martin, Higgins Group Private Brokerage, Licensed in CT, Lic. #RES.6767971 05/18/2025

Blue image about FHA title 1 loans

No matter the age and condition of your home, you may find needs to renovate. It may be necessary to replace old kitchen tiling and countertops, for example. Or, you may wish to build an in-law suite to easily expand your living space. As life goes on, routine repairs may need to be made. 

These repairs, while needed, can become expensive. Outside financial help can be required to complete these home improvement projects. Here is a basic guide to funding home renovations through FHA Title I loans. 

Calling into question the no-equity problem 

Many will search for home equity loans when it’s time to start home renovations. These loans require your home to have built up some form of equity. Unlike a home equity loan, FHA Title I loans do not require equity.

This may include individuals who owe more on their mortgage than what it’s currently worth. This form of FHA loan can grant up to $25,000, regardless of home equity.

Requirements for a FHA Title I loan 

These loans can be acquired through banks and other financial establishments. They have to be certified HUD-approved lenders for Title I loans. However, it’s important to note the Federal Housing Administration doesn’t directly establish these loans. This means loan closing costs and fees differ by each lender. 

Home collateral is used to secure a loan amount of over $7,500. The maximum loan amount correlates to the increase in home value once the project is complete. 

Applying for a Title I loan

When applying for a FHA home improvement loan, your lender will run a credit check. They may also require copies of W-2s, pay stubs and other financial documents. Once approved for the loan, you will have monthly payments just like a traditional mortgage. 

Infographic about FHA title 1 loans

There are many pros to utilizing a FHA Title I loan, including fixed interest rates and relaxed requirements for qualification. If you’re interested in embarking on your next home improvement project, consider a FHA Title I loan for financial assistance.

About the Author
Author

Daniel Martin, Higgins Group Private Brokerage, Licensed in CT, Lic. #RES.6767971

With over two decades of experience in Connecticut real estate, Daniel Martin is a seasoned Realtor at Higgins Group Private Brokerage, renowned for his exceptional market insight and unwavering client dedication. A lifelong Connecticut resident, Daniel's deep roots in the community, coupled with his extensive professional background, provide an invaluable advantage to both buyers and sellers across Fairfield and New Haven Counties.

Daniel's distinguished career is marked by consistent achievement, earning him the prestigious Connecticut Magazine 5 Star Realtor award from 2014 to 2025. He is a perennial Top Producer, recognized as both a Top Listing Agent and Top Selling Agent, a testament to his strategic approach and keen understanding of market dynamics. His expertise spans a broad spectrum of real estate needs, including guiding First Time Home Buyers, navigating transactions for Single and Multi-Family Homes, Land, New Construction, New Residential Developments, Condominiums, Downsizing, and Rentals.

Beyond his impressive track record, Daniel's professional affiliations include memberships with the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), Connecticut Association of REALTORS (CAR), Bridgeport Board of Realtors, Smartmls and Greenwich MLS.  His foundational education in real estate from Naugatuck Valley Community College, complemented by studies at Connecticut School of Electronics and Housatonic Community College, underpins his comprehensive understanding of the industry.

Daniel's unique blend of customer service acumen and technological proficiency sets him apart. He leverages every available marketing resource to ensure his clients' homes gain maximum exposure and stand out in the competitive market.

When not orchestrating successful real estate ventures, Daniel cherishes time with his family, including his wife, two children, and four grandchildren. A passionate musician and golf enthusiast, he embodies the vibrant spirit of the Connecticut communities he serves. Daniel's network extends globally, allowing him to facilitate referrals anywhere in the world.