Do You Need Estimates or Plans for a Home Remodel Loan?

In short: 

1. Yes, you need estimates or plans.
   Lenders require detailed contractor estimates, plans, or project descriptions to approve a home remodel loan.

2. It helps determine your loan amount and future home value.
   The provided documentation allows the bank to assess how much you can borrow and estimate your home's post-renovation value.

3. We make the process easy—with real people helping you.
   At First National Bank, you’ll talk to actual humans who walk you step-by-step through gathering the right paperwork—no robots, no call centers.

Now let’s dive a little deeper.

When you're ready to update your kitchen, finish a basement, or build that dream addition, one of the most common questions homeowners in Overland Park, Leawood, Kansas City, and beyond ask is “Do I need to provide plans or estimates to get approved for a home remodel loan?”  At First National Bank, where customer service is our top priority, we believe in walking every customer through the process with real, friendly people—not automated systems.

Here’s what you need to know before applying:

Why Plans and Estimates Matter to Lenders

Whether you’re considering a home equity loan, HELOC, or construction loan, lenders want assurance that the money borrowed will go toward improvements that add value to your property. This is especially important because your home typically serves as collateral for the loan.

Providing professional estimates or contractor bids helps in several ways:

1. Determines Loan Amount
   Lenders use your estimates to determine the total cost of the project and how much financing you may need. Without detailed plans, the bank can’t accurately assess the risk or decide how much to approve.
   
   

2. Assures Responsible Fund Use
   When you submit plans or quotes from contractors, it shows that you’ve thoughtfully considered the scope, cost, and feasibility of your remodel. It also reassures the bank that the project is legitimate and designed to improve your home’s value.
   
   

3. Affects the Appraisal Process
   For large renovations, the bank’s appraiser may assess your home based not only on its current condition but also on the "as-completed" value—meaning how much your property will be worth after the remodel. Estimates and plans are critical for this future valuation.
   
   

What You’ll Likely Need to Provide

If you apply for a home remodel loan at First National Bank—whether in Louisburg, Stilwell, Prairie Village, or serving nearby areas like Overland Park and Leawood—you may be asked to submit:

• Written estimates or bids from contractors
  
  

• Blueprints or plans, if the project is substantial (like room additions or structural changes)
  
  

• A detailed description of the renovation, especially if you plan to do the work yourself
  
  

This information gives both you and the lender a clear understanding of the project scope and costs. Don’t worry—we have actual humans answering the phone, ready to help you gather and organize this paperwork so the process stays simple and stress-free.

We Make the Process Personal and Easy

At First National Bank, you’re never passed off to a call center. Our knowledgeable team in Louisburg, Stilwell, and Prairie Village walks you step-by-step through your remodel loan application, from start to finish. We answer questions, review your documents, and make sure you understand each part of the process—because here, customer service is number one.

Ready to Start Your Home Remodel Loan?

If you live in Kansas City, Overland Park, Leawood, or the surrounding areas and are planning a remodel, stop by one of our local branches or give us a call. A real person—not a robot—will guide you every step of the way.

Visit or contact First National Bank today to learn more about our home remodel loan options designed with you—and your home’s future—in mind.

Your Trusted Community Bank in Miami, Johnson, and Cass County

At First National Bank, we’re proud to serve the communities of Miami, Johnson, and Cass County with personalized, hometown banking. Whether you need personal and business loans, checking and savings accounts, CDs, IRAs, safe deposit boxes, or cash management services, we have you covered. Looking for home financing options? We offer mortgages, home equity loans, construction loans, refinancing, second mortgages, and swing loans to fit your needs. Stop by one of our convenient locations in Louisburg, Stilwell, or Prairie Village—or reach out to us today to learn how we can help you reach your financial goals.