The safe thing to do would pay cash and only do it if you still have 6 months to a year of living expenses reserved after you pay for the renovation. If you don't mind exposing yourself to the additional risk a HELOC and then refi might be the best option. Just look at the possibilities here with the economy unstable, jobs in some industries shrinking, and housing market unstable.

Sometimes it can take a pay period or two before direct deposits update. It might have been sent to your old account and rejected.

Most self-made successful people follow three rules. 1. Work hard in your own interest (not in the interest of others) 2. Spend smart 3. Take smart risks. I would suggest reading books and watching speeches of successful people.

Become rich and successful yourself, then you will meet many.