Summer is just around the corner, and now is the perfect time to spruce up your backyard. However, before you dive into your backyard makeover project – it’s essential to consider your budget and financial goals. With that in mind, here are some financial tips for your backyard makeover.

Set a budget

The first step to any home renovation project is setting a budget. Determine how much money you can realistically afford to spend on your backyard makeover, and stick to it. It’s easy to get carried away with all the different options available, but keeping your budget in mind will help you make more informed decisions about which projects to prioritize.

Prioritize your projects

Once you’ve set your budget, it’s time to prioritize your backyard makeover projects. Start by making a list of all the improvements you’d like to make and then rank them based on importance. Consider factors such as the condition of your backyard, what the project would be used for, and what would add the most value to your home. This will help you focus on the most important projects and ensure you don’t overspend on unnecessary ones.

Consider DIY projects

Another way to save money on your backyard makeover is by tackling some of the projects yourself. Not only will this save you money, but it can also be a fun and rewarding way to spruce up your backyard. If you’re handy with tools and have some experience with home improvement projects – consider taking on tasks such as painting, constructing garden beds, building a fire pit, and more.

Shop around for deals

Before you start buying materials for your backyard makeover, do some research to find the best deals. Look for sales at local home improvement stores or search online for deals on materials such as pavers, plants, and outdoor furniture. You can also consider buying gently used items from local buy-and-sell groups or garage sales.

Consider financing options

If your backyard makeover project is more extensive than you initially thought, you may need to consider financing. At First Financial, we offer a variety of loan options to assist you in financing the backyard of your dreams.

1. Home improvement loans are unsecured and don’t need to use your home as collateral to qualify. Lenders will use your credit score to determine your interest rate and qualifications.*
2. Home equity loans are similar to home improvement loans in that they are paid out in a lump sum that you can repay over time in regular fixed monthly payments.**
3. A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a secured loan backed by your home, allowing you to qualify for lower interest rates. Our HELOCs have a maximum borrow amount of $75,000 and an LTV of up to 70%, and allow you to advance from your approved credit line as you need it. ++
4. Credit cards with a lower interest rate may be good for smaller home improvements, especially if you can find a card with added perks. We offer four credit card options with benefits like a 10-day grace period and no annual fees.+ Our Visa Cash Plus cards, for example – offer UChoose Rewards on all purchases that are redeemable for travel, merchandise, gift cards, and cash back.

By setting a budget, prioritizing your projects, considering DIY options, shopping around for deals, and exploring financing options – you can make your backyard makeover dreams a reality without breaking the bank. If you need help determining the best financing path for your home improvement project, feel free to ask our financial experts for advice. Call us at 732.312.1500 or stop into your local branch to get started.

Happy renovating!

*Available on primary residence only. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Home Improvement Loan and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth of Ocean Counties. See credit union for details. Rate will vary based off of applicant’s credit rating. Not all applicants who apply will be approved, subject to underwriting guidelines and credit approval. Lien position and appraisal valuation may affect the maximum loan amount. Not all applicants will qualify for maximum Loan to Value (LTV) ratio. It will be based off of creditworthiness, property type, occupancy, lien position, and loan amount. Rates will be affected by LTV or combined LTV if there is another lien on the property. Loan amounts over $7,500.00 will be required to give First Financial FCU a security interest in their property. Rates will vary based off of lien position and whether the loan is mortgage secured or unsecured. For mortgage secured Home Improvement loans First Financial FCU (FFFCU) will waive closing costs at inception of loan. If loan is terminated within the first 2 years of opening, closing cost waiver is revoked and are required to be paid back by member to FFFCU.

**First Financial FCU (FFFCU) will waive closing costs at inception of loan. If loan is terminated within the first 2 years of opening, closing cost waiver is revoked and the borrower(s) will be required to pay back closing costs in full to FFFCU. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Home Equity Loan, and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. See FFFCU for details or visit firstffcu.com for all current rates. Rates for financing up to 80% of Appraised Value less other Mortgages.

+APR varies up to 18% when you open your account based on your credit worthiness. This APR is for purchases and will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate. Subject to credit approval. Rates quoted assume excellent borrower credit history. Your actual APR may vary based on your state of residence, approved loan amount, applicable discounts and your credit history. No Annual Fees. Other fees that apply: Balance Transfer and Cash Advance Fees of 3% or $10, whichever is greater; Late Payment Fee of $29, $10 Card Replacement Fee, and Returned Payment Fee of $29. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a Visa Credit Card and is available to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers, or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties.

++ LTV= Loan to Value Ratio. Rates will vary with the market based on Prime Rate and may change quarterly. Subject to credit approval. Available on primary or secondary homes only. A First Financial membership is required to obtain a home equity line of credit, and is open to anyone who lives, works, worships, volunteers or attends school in Monmouth or Ocean Counties. Subject to underwriting guidelines. See credit union for details.