Monthly Archives: January 2024

Contractors: Having Issues? Talk To Your 203(K) Consultant

As a HUD 203(k) Consultant, one of the main things I see that can sabotage the contractor/borrower relationship is not getting the 203(k) Consultant involved if an issue comes up during the home renovation.

Let me give you an example. During a renovation project, a borrower had the vision of opening a wall to create an open floor plan between the dining room and kitchen. However, that vision was not in the original Specification of Repair (SOR) the contractor bid on in the Work Write Up. So, the borrower and the contractor agree to open the wall for an out-of-pocket fee.

When I was called in to perform the Draw Request (draw inspection), the wall was opened. Since I, the 203(k) consultant, was not notified in advance of the change in the SOR, the contractor may not get paid from the Lender for the work that they have completed.

This is why communication with your consultant is important. If I had been notified earlier, I would have reminded the contractor that any changes in the SOR, must be approved BEFORE the work can commence by the Lender. I would also remind the contractor that any work performed outside the SOR, may cause unnecessary delays to the borrower’s rehab project, since no co-mingling can occur per the Lender’s signed agreement at closing.

The moral to the story is that I am here to assist the borrower AND contractor so everyone can get through a project with very little friction. Contractors, please reach out to your 203(k) consultant to avoid any problems with you getting paid.

All the best!

Want to learn more? Watch this quick Youtube video!

HUD 203K Consultants Are Not Project Managers

In my work as a HUD 203(k) Consultant, I occasionally come across homeowners who think it’s my job to oversee their contractor’s day-to-day operation like a project manager, and that’s not the case. I can see why there can be room for confusion. The rehab process can be confusing and even overwhelming to first time homeowners who need to figure who does what fast. That’s where this article comes in! 

If you’re a home buyer that’s confused about your HUD 203(k) Consultant’s role, you’ll find your answer here. Keep scrolling to learn the difference between a HUD 203(k) consultant and a Project Manager.

The Difference Between a HUD 203(k) Consultant & a Project Manager

The role of a HUD 203(k) Consultant is distinct from that of a project manager, construction consultant, rehab coordinator, or whatever you’d call it. Why is that? Well, the differences lie in the responsibilities and focus areas.

HUD 203(k) Consultant:

  • Specialization: HUD 203(k) Consultants specialize in the Federal Housing Administration’s (FHA) 203(k) Loan Program, which is designed to help home buyers finance the purchase and renovation of a home in one mortgage.
    • Inspection & Approval: HUD 203(k) Consultants primarily focus on inspecting the property to determine its current condition and identifying necessary repairs or improvements. They play a key role in ensuring that the proposed renovations meet FHA/Non-FHA guidelines.
    • Draw Inspections: HUD 203(k) Consultants conduct draw inspections during the renovation process to verify that the completed work aligns with the agreed-upon plans and specifications.

Project Manager:

  • Overall Project Oversight: Project Managers are responsible for overseeing the entire renovation or construction project, regardless of the financing method. Their role extends beyond FHA-specific requirements.
    • Budgeting & Scheduling: Project Managers handle the budgeting, scheduling, and coordination of all aspects of the project. They ensure the work is completed on time, within budget, and according to the client’s specifications.
    • Contractor Management: Project Managers may hire and manage contractors, negotiate contracts, and handle day-to-day communication with the construction team.
    • Risk Management: Project Managers are involved in risk assessment and mitigation, addressing issues that may arise during the project.

While a HUD 203K consultant focuses on FHA compliance and inspections related to the 203(k) loan program, a Project Manager has a broader role in overseeing all aspects of a construction or renovation project. The distinction arises from the specific requirements and objectives associated with the FHA 203(k) loan program.

Want a quick summary of what a HUD 203(k) Consultant does? Watch the video below!