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A personal loan is one of the fastest ways to fund home improvements. You can get approved quickly, borrow without tapping your home equity, and repay in fixed monthly installments. This guide covers the best personal loans for home improvement projects in 2026.
Why Use a Personal Loan for Home Improvement?
A personal loan makes sense for home improvements when:
- You do not have enough home equity for a HELOC or home equity loan
- You need funds quickly (personal loans often fund within 1 to 3 business days)
- You want a fixed payment and fixed payoff date
- Your project is $5,000 to $50,000
Compared to credit cards, personal loans usually have lower interest rates and structured repayment. Compared to home equity loans, they do not put your home at risk.
Best Personal Loans for Home Improvement in 2026
1. SoFi — Best Overall for Good Credit
SoFi offers some of the best rates with zero fees. If your credit score is 680 or higher, SoFi is hard to beat for home improvement financing.
- APR: 8.99% – 29.49%
- Loan amounts: $5,000 – $100,000
- Terms: 24 to 84 months
- Origination fee: None
- Funding time: 1 to 3 business days
Read our full SoFi personal loan review for more details.
2. LendingClub — Best for Fair Credit
LendingClub accepts borrowers with credit scores as low as 600. They charge an origination fee, but offer flexible repayment options and joint loan applications.
- APR: 9.57% – 35.99%
- Loan amounts: $1,000 – $40,000
- Terms: 24 to 60 months
- Origination fee: 3% – 8%
- Funding time: 2 to 4 business days
See our LendingClub personal loan review for the full picture.
3. Marcus by Goldman Sachs — Best for No Fees
Marcus charges no fees at all — no origination, no late fees, no prepayment penalty. This makes them a top pick for borrowers who want predictable costs.
- APR: 6.99% – 24.99%
- Loan amounts: $3,500 – $40,000
- Terms: 36 to 72 months
- Origination fee: None
- Funding time: 1 to 4 business days
Read the full Marcus personal loan review for details.
4. Avant — Best for Fair to Lower Credit
Avant works with borrowers with scores as low as 580. Rates are higher, but it is a solid option when other lenders say no.
- APR: 9.95% – 35.99%
- Loan amounts: $2,000 – $35,000
- Terms: 24 to 60 months
- Origination fee: Up to 4.75%
- Funding time: Next business day
Our full Avant personal loan review covers everything you need to know.
5. LightStream — Best for Very Good to Excellent Credit
LightStream offers the lowest rates for strong borrowers and the highest loan amounts. Great for larger renovation projects like kitchen remodels or room additions.
- APR: 7.49% – 25.49%
- Loan amounts: $5,000 – $100,000
- Terms: 24 to 144 months
- Origination fee: None
- Funding time: Same day possible
Comparison Table
| Lender | APR Range | Loan Amounts | Min. Credit Score | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SoFi | 8.99% – 29.49% | $5K – $100K | 680 | None |
| LendingClub | 9.57% – 35.99% | $1K – $40K | 600 | 3–8% origination |
| Marcus | 6.99% – 24.99% | $3.5K – $40K | 660 | None |
| Avant | 9.95% – 35.99% | $2K – $35K | 580 | Up to 4.75% |
| LightStream | 7.49% – 25.49% | $5K – $100K | 660 | None |
Personal Loan vs. HELOC for Home Improvement
| Feature | Personal Loan | HELOC |
|---|---|---|
| Collateral required | No | Yes (your home) |
| Approval speed | 1–3 days | 2–4 weeks |
| Rate type | Fixed | Variable |
| Typical rate | Higher | Lower |
| Risk | Credit impact if default | Home at risk if default |
For more details on this comparison, see our full guide on personal loan vs. credit card for home improvement.
How to Apply for a Home Improvement Personal Loan
- Get estimates from contractors so you know how much to borrow
- Check your credit score and report for errors
- Pre-qualify with 3 to 5 lenders using soft credit checks
- Compare APRs, fees, and total repayment amounts
- Submit a formal application with the best offer
- Receive funds and start your project
Tips to Get the Best Rate
- Check your credit report and dispute any errors before applying
- Pay down credit card balances to lower your credit utilization
- Add a co-borrower with strong credit if your score is borderline
- Choose a shorter loan term to get a lower rate
- Avoid applying for other credit in the months before you apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What credit score do I need for a home improvement loan?
Most lenders want a score of 600 or higher. The best rates are available for scores of 720 and above. Borrowers with scores below 600 should look at Avant or secured loan options.
How much can I borrow for a home improvement project?
Personal loans for home improvement go up to $100,000 with lenders like SoFi and LightStream. Most projects are funded in the $5,000 to $50,000 range.
How long does it take to get a home improvement loan?
Personal loans are among the fastest. Many lenders fund within 1 to 3 business days. LightStream offers same-day funding in some cases.
Can I use a personal loan for any home improvement?
Yes. Personal loans are unsecured and have no restrictions on how you use the funds. Kitchens, bathrooms, roofing, landscaping, HVAC — all are fair game.
Is interest on a home improvement personal loan tax-deductible?
No. Interest on unsecured personal loans is not tax-deductible. HELOC interest may be deductible if used to substantially improve the home — consult a tax professional for your situation.
Rates as of May 2026. Rates and terms change often. Check with each lender for the most current information.