Your guide to financing a loft conversion

Financing a loft conversion is important in making your plans a reality. This guide is designed to simplify the process, giving you clear and practical insights into the best ways to fund your project.

Whether you’re looking at loans, to remortgage, or dipping into your savings, we’ll explain the benefits and drawbacks of each option.

You’ll also discover how to plan your costs, manage repayments, and make the most of your investment by increasing your property’s value. Explore the sections below for straightforward advice and feel confident about taking the next step in your loft conversion journey.

Funding options for loft conversions

Financing your loft conversion doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’ve been saving for years or need extra help, there’s an option that fits your situation. Let’s explore the most popular ways to fund your project.

Personal savings

If you’ve built up some savings, using them for your loft conversion can be the simplest and most stress-free choice. It’s a great option to avoid loans and the extra costs that come with them.

Pros:

  • No loans, no interest, and no added debt.
  • Complete control over your spending.
  • Avoids credit checks or loan applications.

Cons:

  • You’ll need a large amount saved upfront.
  • Can leave you with less for emergencies.
  • Unforeseen project costs might stretch your budget.

Personal loans

A personal loan can help if you don’t have enough savings but want a straightforward way to spread the cost of your loft conversion. It’s quick to arrange and doesn’t require risking your home.

Pros:

  • Fixed monthly repayments, making it easier to budget.
  • No risk to your home as the loan isn’t secured.
  • Suitable for mid-sized projects.

Cons:

  • Interest rates can be higher than secured loans.
  • Loan amounts are often capped at around £25,000.
  • Approval depends on your credit history.

Secured loans (homeowner loans)

If your loft conversion requires a bigger budget, a secured loan might be the way to go. Using your property as collateral allows you to borrow more at a lower interest rate, but it’s important to weigh the risks.

Pros:

  • Lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans.
  • Higher borrowing limits for larger projects.
  • Longer repayment terms to reduce monthly costs.

Cons:

  • Your home is at risk if you miss repayments.
  • You’ll pay more interest overall with longer terms.
  • The application process can take longer due to additional checks.

Remortgaging

Remortgaging lets you unlock the equity in your home to fund your loft conversion. It’s a popular choice for large projects, often offering better interest rates than standalone loans.

Pros:

  • Lower interest rates compared to personal loans.
  • Ideal for large-scale projects requiring substantial funds.
  • Combines borrowing into one manageable mortgage payment.

Cons:

  • Extending your mortgage term increases total repayment costs.
  • Early repayment charges might apply on your current deal.
  • Missing repayments could put your home at risk.

Further advances

A further advance allows you to borrow extra funds from your current mortgage lender. It’s a straightforward option that avoids the need to switch providers.

Pros:

  • Competitive interest rates.
  • Easier process with your existing lender.
  • No need to switch mortgage providers.

Cons:

  • Limited by how much equity you have in your home.
  • Adds to your overall mortgage debt.
  • Can take time to arrange.

Home improvement loans

Home improvement loans are designed specifically for projects like loft conversions. They’re a flexible option that lets you work without remortgaging or securing your home.

Pros:

  • Tailored for loft conversion and renovation projects.
  • Easier to qualify for compared to traditional loans.
  • No need to remortgage or use your home as security.

Cons:

  • Loan amounts may not cover large projects.
  • Higher interest rates than secured loans.
  • May require detailed project plans or quotes upfront.

Credit cards

If your loft conversion is on the smaller side, or you just need extra funding, a credit card is a handy solution. Look out for cards offering 0% interest to keep costs manageable.

Pros:

  • Quick access to funds for small expenses.
  • 0% interest during promotional periods if repaid in time.
  • No lengthy loan applications.

Cons:

  • High interest rates once the 0% period ends.
  • Limited to smaller budgets due to credit limits.
  • This can lead to debt if repayments aren’t managed carefully.

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Loan repayment calculator for your loft conversion

Our calculator is designed to help you plan your loft conversion with confidence. Factoring in the loan amount, interest rate, and repayment term provides an accurate estimate of your monthly payments. It’s a simple tool to give you clarity on costs, so you can make informed decisions and focus on bringing your loft conversion plans to life.

How to apply for loft conversion finance

Securing finance for your loft conversion involves a few key steps. Follow these steps to ensure the necessary funds and manage your project efficiently. Consult financial professionals for tailored advice.

  • Determine your budget: Get detailed quotes from contractors to understand the total cost of your loft conversion. Include all expenses such as materials, labour, and potential unforeseen costs. A clear budget helps you know how much financing you need and prevents overspending.
  • Check your credit score and gather documents: Ensure your credit score is in good standing. A higher credit score can help you secure better interest rates and loan terms. Gather necessary documents like proof of income, identification, project quotes, and details of existing debts. This preparation streamlines the application process.
  • Explore and compare financing options: Consider various financing options like savings, personal loans, secured loans, remortgaging, and specialised loans. Compare interest rates, repayment terms, and fees from different lenders. This step is crucial to finding your project's most cost-effective and suitable financing option.
  • Apply for pre-approval: Submit an application to see how much you can borrow and the interest rates you qualify for. Pre-approval helps narrow your options and gives you a clearer idea of what you can afford.
  • Submit your application and finalise the loan: Choose a lender and complete your loan application. Provide all required documents and await approval. Once approved, carefully review the loan offer, paying close attention to the terms and conditions. Sign the agreement and complete any additional paperwork to finalise the loan.
  • Manage your repayments: Set up reminders or automatic payments to ensure you stay on track with your repayment schedule. Consistently meeting your payments helps maintain your credit score and avoid any penalties.

*By following these steps, you can secure the finance needed for your loft conversion and ensure the project runs smoothly.

Key considerations when financing a loft conversion

Financing a loft conversion is a big decision, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully. From choosing the right loan to planning for the future, these key points will help you make an informed choice that aligns with your budget and goals.

Interest rates

Interest rates can have a big impact on the total cost of your loan. Take time to compare rates from different lenders, as even a small difference can save you thousands.

Fixed rates give you consistent monthly payments, while variable rates might start lower but could change over time. Choose what works best for your financial situation.

Loan terms

Look closely at how long you’ll be repaying your loan and how much the monthly payments will be. Longer terms mean smaller monthly payments but more interest over time. Shorter terms cost less overall but come with higher monthly payments, so make sure your choice fits your budget.

Loans to buy a modular loft

Credit score

Your credit score plays a big role in securing the best loan terms. A higher score means lower interest rates and better options. If your score needs improvement, take steps like paying off debts, reducing credit usage, and making timely payments before applying.

Equity in property

If you’re considering a secured loan or remortgage, the equity in your home is key. The more equity you have, the better terms and borrowing limits you’ll likely get. Knowing your property’s value and mortgage balance will help you assess your options.

Repayment ability

Repaying the loan for your dormer loft conversion

It’s essential to be realistic about your ability to make repayments. Look at your income, monthly expenses, and any other financial obligations.

Plan for potential changes, like increased bills or reduced income, to avoid financial stress later.

Professional advice

Speaking to a financial adviser or mortgage broker can save you time and money. They’ll guide you through your options, explain complex products, and help you find the best deal for your circumstances.

Building regulations and planning permissions

A compliant loft conversion is essential.

Before starting, ensure you’ve secured all necessary planning permissions and building regulation approvals. Ignoring these requirements can lead to costly delays or modifications down the line.

Cost estimates and budgeting

Know your numbers. Add up the project's total cost, including materials, labour, and any extras. Build a realistic budget and set aside a 10–15% contingency fund for unexpected expenses. Sticking to your budget can save you stress and money.

For an accurate cost, please use our loft conversion cost calculator for an instant price. If you are in the investigation stages, our loft conversion cost guide will be able to help you understand current costs.

Market value increase

A well-planned loft conversion can significantly boost your home’s market value by up to 20%. This increase can make financing the project feel more worthwhile and may help you secure better loan terms.
Always consider the potential return on your investment when planning.

Loft conversion finance - Frequently asked questions

When looking to finance your loft conversion, plenty of questions arise. Here our experts have collated the most common questions we receive. These answers are written to advise and educate - to help you evaluate your situation and make an informed decision.

Can I get a loan specifically for a loft conversion?

Yes, many lenders offer personal or secured loans specifically for home improvement projects like loft conversions. These loans often come with flexible repayment terms tailored to your needs.

What’s the best way to finance a loft conversion?

The best option depends on your circumstances. Savings are ideal if you want to avoid debt, while secured loans or remortgaging are better for larger budgets. Always consider interest rates, repayment terms, and risks before deciding.

Can I pay monthly for a loft conversion?

Some builders and lenders offer finance plans, allowing you to pay in instalments. These options spread the cost, but make sure you understand the terms, including any interest rates, before committing.

Will financing affect my property’s value?

Yes, financing adds initial costs, but a well-designed loft conversion can increase your property’s value by up to 20%, often offsetting the investment.

How long will it take to get loan approval?

Approval times vary by lender. Personal loans can be approved in a day or two, while secured loans, remortgages, or further advances may take several weeks. Start the process early to avoid delays.

Can I get government funding for my loft conversion?

Government grants or schemes may apply if your loft conversion includes energy-efficient upgrades, such as solar panels or advanced insulation. Check local and national schemes for eligibility.

What’s the impact of financing on my monthly bills?

Taking out a loan or remortgaging will add to your monthly outgoings. Calculate these costs in advance to ensure they fit comfortably within your budget.

Our key loft conversion guides; Just for you.

A selection of our essential guides to help you make the right choice when improving your home with a loft conversion:

Loft conversion types: Explore the different types of loft conversions to find the perfect fit for your home. From Dormer and Mansard to Hip to Gable, Modular and Velux, each type offers unique benefits and suits different architectural styles.

Loft conversion costs: Wondering about the expenses involved? Our comprehensive guide on loft conversion costs breaks down the financial aspects of each conversion type. Understand the factors influencing the costs, from materials and labour to planning permissions and unforeseen expenses. Use our loft conversion calculator to get an accurate cost and understand the ROI on your loft conversion you could achieve!