First Time Investor Best Loan Options for Purchase + Renovations

[Deuce Thevenow]

I'm a serial entrepreneur mostly in technology. I've been doing a lot of research into buying properties where I am from in Indianapolis, IN. Before getting too far ahead realizing I need to figure out the lending program first. I've spoken to a few lenders around a Homestyle Renovation Loan but have said that there are personal guarantees. I've heard that some programs might not require personal guarantees and have asset-based lending programs. I rent and don't have other properties or assets (other than cash for the investment).

I am curious about what options might be available and any advice/feedback that others have to share?

We have cash for the downpayment and probably the rehab costs but would prefer to get a loan for 10-20% down and finance the renovation costs as well.

Originally was hoping to use my family that are non-licensed contractors for the renovations but understand that might be limited to a small portion of the loan.

[Dave Spooner]

@Deuce Thevenow How many units is the property you're interested in? You can use a Homestyle for an investment property, but I believe it is restricted to SFHs only.

If it's multi-unit, you're almost certainly going to need 20-25% down. I would recommend a construction-to-permanent loan. This combines a construction loan with a traditional mortgage. It can result in higher interest rates during the construction period though (they're usually variable at that time).