09/10/2026
Stop assuming you have to give up your low-rate first mortgage to build an ADU.
For California and Texas homeowners, there may be several ways to finance the project:
✅ Home equity loan : Access equity with a fixed payment while keeping your existing first mortgage in place.
✅ HELOC : Draw funds as needed for a flexible renovation or construction budget, while preserving your current first mortgage.
✅ Cash-out refinance : Replace your existing mortgage with a new loan and take cash out. This can work, but compare the new rate and long-term cost carefully.
✅ Renovation financing : Options such as HomeStyle® or FHA 203(k) may combine renovation costs with mortgage financing, subject to program guidelines.
✅ Construction-to-permanent financing : Finance the ADU build and transition into longer-term mortgage financing, depending on the project and your qualifications.
The right path depends on your equity, project scope, income, credit profile, timeline, and budget. A HELOC or home equity loan may help you keep a valuable low-rate first mortgage: but the real numbers should drive the decision.
Want to explore your options? Visit BestDealFirst.com, email [email protected], or call/text 909-550-1146 for zero-pressure guidance.
Corey Friedrich, NMLS # 2746546 | Powered by Mortgage X LLC | Equal Housing Lender | NMLS: 2569359