Using a Loan to Fix Up Your House Before Selling It

TL;DR – Why a Home Improvement Loan Can Pay Off

Small upgrades can mean big returns. A few smart renovations can increase your home’s market value.
You don’t need to drain your savings. Home improvement loans and lines of credit make projects more affordable.
Local banks make it easier. First National Bank offers flexible, personalized loan options right here in the Kansas City metro.
Think before you remodel. Not all upgrades give the same return — focus on curb appeal, kitchens, and bathrooms.
Work with people who know your market. A local lender understands what buyers in your neighborhood are looking for.

Why Home Improvements Before Selling Are Worth It

If you’re getting ready to sell your house, you might be wondering — should I fix it up first?

The answer is often yes. A few upgrades can make your home sell faster, attract more buyers, and boost your final sale price. But remodeling projects can be expensive — especially if you’re paying out of pocket.

That’s where a home improvement loan from First National Bank can help. Whether you’re replacing your roof, updating your kitchen, or refreshing your curb appeal, we make financing simple, flexible, and local.

What Can a Home Improvement Loan Be Used For?

You can use a home improvement loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC) for nearly any project that increases your home’s value or buyer appeal, such as:

Kitchen remodels – new cabinets, countertops, or appliances
Bathroom upgrades – modern fixtures, tiling, or lighting
Exterior updates – siding, paint, or new windows
Curb appeal – landscaping, driveway repair, or a new front door
Major systems – HVAC, roofing, or plumbing updates

When you finance your project with a local bank like First National Bank, you get access to competitive rates, quick decisions, and friendly customer service throughout the process.

Types of Loans for Home Improvements

Every homeowner’s situation is unique — that’s why we offer different financing options depending on your goals and equity.

1. Home Improvement Loans

Personalized loans designed specifically for home renovation projects.

2. Home Equity Loans

Borrow a lump sum based on the equity you’ve built in your house — perfect for large projects like kitchen remodels or new roofs.

3. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)

A flexible line of credit that lets you borrow as you go. Great for multiple projects or ongoing updates.

Learn more about your options on our Home Loans page or stop by one of our local branches in Louisburg, Stilwell, or Prairie Village to speak with a lending specialist in person.

Common Questions People Ask About Home Improvement Loans

1. Do home improvements really increase home value?

Yes! Projects like kitchen remodels, bathroom upgrades, and exterior updates typically see 60–80% return on investment when you sell — sometimes even higher in the Kansas City market.

2. What’s the best loan for fixing up a home before selling?

If you’re planning to sell soon, a short-term home improvement loan or HELOC may be better than refinancing. A loan officer can help you compare terms based on your timeline and goals.

3. How much can I borrow?

That depends on your income, credit, and home equity. Local lenders like First National Bank can review your budget and estimate how much you’ll qualify for before you start your project.

4. How fast can I get the funds?

We know timing matters — especially when you’re preparing to list your home. Our local approval process means you won’t wait weeks for corporate decisions.

Smart Home Upgrades That Sell Homes Faster in Kansas City

Before you start tearing down walls, consider what’s most appealing to Kansas City–area buyers. According to local real estate trends, these updates tend to make the biggest impact:

Fresh paint and neutral colors
Updated kitchen fixtures and lighting
Refinished hardwood floors
New front doors and landscaping
Modernized bathrooms

Even simple changes like replacing outdated light fixtures or adding smart thermostats can give your listing a competitive edge.

You can explore additional remodeling ideas from HomeLight’s home improvement ROI guide — a non-competitive resource for homeowners.

Why Choose a Local Bank in Louisburg, Prairie Village and Stilwell

When it comes to improving your home before selling, having a local banking partner matters.

First National Bank has deep roots in the Kansas City area, with locations in:

Louisburg, KS
Stilwell, KS
Prairie Village, KS

We serve homeowners throughout Overland Park, Leawood, and Kansas City, offering:

Personal attention and clear communication
Quick local decision-making
Competitive loan rates
Flexible repayment terms
Guidance tailored to local market trends

Whether you’re preparing your first home for sale or updating an investment property, we’ll help you find the right financing for your goals.

A few upgrades can make your home more attractive — and profitable — when it’s time to sell. From curb appeal to kitchen updates, smart improvements can boost your listing price and help you sell faster in today’s Kansas City market.

If you’re ready to start, talk to the local lending experts at First National Bank. We’ll help you find the right home improvement loan or line of credit and guide you through the process with personal, hometown customer service every step of the way.

Visit ibankfirst.com or stop by one of our branches in Louisburg, Stilwell, or Prairie Village to learn how we can help you fix up your home — and make it market-ready.

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 loan or 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.