Get your projects funded — and get paid on schedule.
Renovation loans give your clients a clear, pre-approved budget before work starts, and give you a predictable draw schedule as you complete it. We handle the financing; you handle the build.
Renovation financing, matched to the client’s goal
| FHA 203(k) Limited | FHA 203(k) Standard | HomeStyle Renovation | CHOICERenovation | USDA Renovation Standard | USDA Renovation Limited | VA Renovation | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Light cosmetic updates | Major/structural repairs | Purchase or refi, incl. 2nd homes | Purchase or refi, incl. 2nd homes | Rural purchases, no down payment | Rural purchases, light repairs | Veterans, purchase or refi |
| Down payment | 3.5% | 3.5% | 5% (3% if first-time buyer) | 5% (3% if first-time buyer) | 0% — 100% financing | 0% — 100% financing | 0% — 100% financing |
| Minimum credit score | 620 | 620 | Per automated underwriting | Per automated underwriting | 620 | 620 | 620 |
| Repair budget cap | $75,000 max | No cap (county limits apply) | No cap (county limits apply) | No cap (county limits apply) | No cap (county limits apply) | $35,000 max | $50,000 max |
| Structural repairs | Not allowed | Allowed | Allowed | Allowed | Allowed | Not allowed | Minor only |
| Can add a pool | Not allowed | Not allowed | Allowed | Allowed | Not allowed | Not allowed | Not allowed |
| Can add an ADU | Not allowed | Attached only | Attached or detached | Attached or detached | Not allowed | Not allowed | Not allowed |
Your path, start to finish
What it takes to work with us
- ✓Bid — a detailed scope of work
- ✓Signed renovation contract
- ✓Profile report with 3 references from similar past jobs
- ✓Current-year W-9
- ✓Valid contractor license, verified with your state/local agency
- ✓Certificate of liability insurance ($1M minimum coverage)
- ✓Bond
- ✓Documented financial ability to sustain the renovation
| Draw | Work completed | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Draw 1 | Demo, framing, windows, exteriors | $23,235 |
| Draw 2 | Rough plumbing, rough electric, ductwork | $17,150 |
| Draw 3 | Insulation, drywall, priming, interior doors | $16,650 |
| Draw 4 | Flooring, ceramic, vanities, trim | $21,660 |
| Draw 5 | Kitchen install, finish plumbing/electric, HVAC | $31,140 |
Questions we hear a lot
Meet the Kopelson Team
Nothing derails a job like financing falling apart mid-project. Aaron Kopelson works with contractors to make sure that never happens. As a dedicated renovation loan specialist, Aaron has completed extensive, ongoing training across every major renovation program — FHA 203(k) (Limited & Standard), Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation, Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation, VA Renovation, and USDA Renovation — so he understands the draw schedules, inspection requirements, contractor approval processes, and paperwork these loans demand from the contractor’s side, not just the borrower’s.
For general contractors, that means:
Clients who can actually afford the scope of work — renovation costs are underwritten and funded upfront, not scraped together as the project goes, so there are fewer surprise budget cuts mid-job.
A smoother draw process — Aaron helps set expectations early on documentation, inspections, and timing, so you’re not chasing paperwork or waiting on funds you’ve already earned.
A financing partner who’s responsive — questions about contractor eligibility, change orders, or draw timing get answered fast, instead of stalling the job while everyone waits on a loan officer.
As an independent broker partnered with Arbor Financial Group, Aaron has access to all of Arbor’s wholesale lenders — meaning more renovation loan options and more flexibility when a project or client’s financial picture is complicated. He also handles the full range of standard loan products, so clients you refer for a renovation project can come back to him for a purchase, refinance, or future project financing too.
Aaron has been featured in the Orange County Register and other publications as a recognized expert in the lending field. He holds the Certified Mortgage Planning Specialist (CMPS) and Certified Mortgage Advisor (CMA) designations, is a graduate of Azusa Pacific University, and brings over 25 years of industry experience and more than a thousand families served to every transaction.
Working on a project that needs renovation financing lined up? Let’s connect so your next job stays funded and on schedule.
I have had the pleasure of working with Aaron Kopelson, Certified Mortgage Advisor at Arbor Financial Group, for over 24 years, and I can confidently say he is one of the most knowledgeable and professional mortgage advisors in the industry.
Aaron consistently provides exceptional service, outstanding communication, and expert guidance throughout the entire lending process. He takes the time to thoroughly explain every detail, ensuring that clients fully understand their options and feel comfortable with every decision. His follow-up is impeccable, and he is always accessible, promptly returning calls and addressing questions or concerns.
What truly sets Aaron apart is his ability to make what can often be a complicated process feel seamless and stress-free. His professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to his clients are second to none.
I highly recommend Aaron Kopelson to anyone seeking mortgage financing or refinancing assistance. His expertise, integrity, and dedication to client service have earned my trust time and time again over the past two decades.
Just closed on a home loan with Aaron and team. This was not my first time to work with him, and I will continue to work with him going forward.
Aaron knows the loan business, is great at explaining all the details for a non-lender expert, his team is top notch and they make the overall process very easy.
Bottom line, you will have no regrets working with Aaron and his team.
Aaron is amazing! This is the third mortgage I've worked with him, and every experience has been smooth and easy. He's professional, knowledgeable, and always offers competitive rates! Highly recommend!
Working with Aaron was an absolute pleasure from start to finish. He is honest, straightforward, and genuinely has your best interests at heart. Throughout the entire mortgage process, Aaron was always available to answer questions—no matter how big or small—and he explained everything clearly and patiently.
What stood out the most was his deep knowledge of the mortgage industry and how helpful he was at every step. He made what can often be a stressful process feel smooth and manageable. I always felt informed and confident in the decisions I was making, thanks to Aaron's guidance.
If you're looking for a mortgage broker who is reliable, transparent, and truly dedicated to helping you, I can't recommend Aaron enough!
Aaron is phenomenal communicative, informative, smart, diligent proactive well. The list just goes on and on I could not recommend Aaron more to anyone who is interested in purchasing a home and securing a great rate and mortgage.
Working with Aaron Kopelson was absolutely fantastic. He is always available, always makes time for his clients, and is very easy to work with. He went above and beyond for my wife and I throughout our first home buying process. Can't say enough good things about the experience!
Aaron and his team were great to work with. Made the entire process as painless as possible. Excellent communication the entire time. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Ready to talk it through?
No pressure, no obligation — just a clear picture of what’s possible.