Ways to reach Matthew
Call or text
Calls are the fastest way to talk through a specific property. Prefer messaging? Send a text with the property address and a quick description of the work, and Matthew will reply with next steps.
Email works well for sending a listing link, inspection summary, or contractor bids to review. Please don't email Social Security numbers or account numbers.
Schedule a consultation
Pick a time that works for you for a focused phone consultation about your scenario, your repair budget, and whether a Limited or Standard 203(k) fits.
Ready to take the next step? You can also start a secure pre-approval application online, or fill out the short form at the bottom of this page.
What to have ready
You don't need everything below to start a conversation, but the more Matthew knows, the more specific the answers can be:
- Property location — the address if you have one, or at least the city and state.
- Purchase price or current value — the list price or contract price for a purchase, or an estimate of value and current loan balance for a refinance.
- Rough scope of work — a list of the repairs and improvements you have in mind, even if it's informal. Photos help.
- Contractor bids, if any — written estimates, even preliminary ones, make it much easier to judge fit.
- Your timeline — when you need to close or when you'd like work to start.
- General financial picture — employment type, approximate income, and any known credit issues. Details are verified later through the application.
Not sure which repairs qualify? Skim eligible renovations and the 203(k) FAQ first.
What happens after you reach out
- A quick conversation. Matthew asks about the property, your goals, and your timeline, and answers your questions in plain English.
- A fit check. Based on the scope and numbers, Matthew will tell you whether a Limited 203(k), Standard 203(k), or a different option is likely the better fit — including when a 203(k) isn't the right tool.
- Pre-approval. If it makes sense, you'll complete an application so Matthew can review credit, income, and assets and issue a renovation-aware pre-approval, subject to underwriting.
- Bids and scope. Matthew can review contractor bids with you and, on a Standard 203(k), coordinate with the 203(k) consultant.
- Through closing and the draws. You'll get updates through the appraisal, closing, and the renovation draw process.
Common 203(k) scenarios Matthew helps with
The house that won't pass FHA
You found the right neighborhood, but the home has a failing roof or peeling paint that a regular FHA appraisal would flag. A 203(k) may let you finance the fixes as part of the purchase.
The dated but solid home
The structure is fine, but the kitchen, baths, and flooring are decades old. That's often a Limited 203(k) conversation.
The major rehab
Foundation, additions, or a full systems overhaul call for a Standard 203(k) and a consultant. Matthew can help you think through scope, contingency, and timing.
Renovating where you live
You already own the home and want to fix it up without draining savings. A 203(k) refinance may fit, or an equity-based option may be simpler.
About Matthew Brown
Matthew Brown is a Sr. Loan Originator / Mortgage Broker, NMLS #1254520, based in Austin, Texas. He helps buyers and homeowners finance homes that need work, with a focus on explaining renovation loans clearly and setting realistic expectations about timelines, contractors, and costs.
Matthew is licensed in multiple states. Tell him where the property is located and he'll confirm he can help there. You can verify his licensing at NMLS Consumer Access. His main site is Matt.Mortgage.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a cost to talk with Matthew?
No. The initial conversation and scenario review are free and carry no obligation.
Will contacting Matthew affect my credit?
Simply calling, texting, or emailing doesn't. A credit check happens only if you choose to apply, and you'll know before it's pulled.
Can Matthew help if I'm outside Texas?
Possibly. Matthew is licensed in multiple states — tell him where the property is located and he'll confirm he can help there.
Ask Matthew about your 203(k) project
Tell Matthew a little about the property and your plans. He'll follow up by phone or email — no obligation.
Prefer to start now? Start your pre-approval · Schedule a call · (512) 952-1125
Please don't include Social Security or account numbers.