The Process Involved In Multifamily Loans 

Did you know that many multifamily loans have interest rates that are as low as 2.625 percent and have terms of thirty years or longer? 

If you’re looking for a way to finance a multifamily home, it makes sense why you’d consider getting a multifamily loan. The problem that many people have is that they don’t understand what the process of getting one of these loans entails. 

To help you out, we’ve created a guide. Keep reading, and we will tell you what is important to know. 

FHA Multifamily Loans: What Are They? 

If you want to purchase a property that has five or more units, you can get an FHA multifamily loan. But keep in mind that there is a difference between multifamily loans and standard FHA mortgages. 

Though it’s lenders who finance them, it’s the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) that provides the insurance. There are certain loan limits and qualifications that the FHA sets for these kinds of loans. 

In most circumstances, you’ll pay lower interest rates if you choose to get an FHA loan. You’re also likely to have fewer down payment requirements. 

One of the problems with Federal Housing Administration multifamily loans is that it can be challenging to find a lender who is able to offer them.

Thankfully, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has a helpful online resource for those who are interested in getting FHA multifamily loans. 

If you choose to get one of these loans, you’ll have three options to choose from.

If you are planning to buy or refinance multifamily buildings that already exist, you should get an FHA multifamily acquisition loan.

You should try to get an FHA multifamily construction and rehab loan for co-ops if you intend to build or develop cooperative housing. This includes things like low-income housing and elder care facilities. 

If you will be managing a rental property, you should make sure to research your situation in order to find the loan that will best meet your needs. 

Lastly, it’s best to get an FHA multifamily construction or rehab loan for condos if you’re going to be building or developing condos. 

Other Top Loan Choices for Multifamily Properties 

Even though there are many benefits of getting an FHA multifamily loan, it’s important to know that there are other options available. Here are some of the best loan choices for duplexes and multifamily homes. 

Conventional Loans

These are great loans for those who own and occupy the buildings that they’re getting loans for. Many investors also choose to get conventional loans. 

To apply for one of these loans, you’ll need to work with a credit union, mortgage lender, or bank. The mortgage process is very similar to the process of getting a loan for a single-family home. 

These loans follow the same writing guidelines that were set up by the largest mortgage companies such as Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. To get approved for one of these loans, you’ll need to have a high credit score, a dependable income, and a low amount of debt. 

VA Multifamily Loans

If you serve in the military, it’s possible that you’ll qualify for a VA multifamily loan. These loans are also for veterans and spouses of veterans. But keep in mind that you’ll only be able to get financing for a property that has four units or less. 

VA loans are not meant to be used for investment properties. This is why it’s necessary for you to live in the units that you’re planning to get a loan for. 

In most circumstances, the interest rate you pay on a VA multifamily loan will be much lower than what you’ll end up paying with a conventional loan. You also won’t need to offer a down payment, and you won’t need to have a PMI. 

Commercial Loans 

If you are a business owner who is trying to increase your investment income or start scaling your company, you should consider getting a commercial loan. 

When applying for a commercial loan, you’ll probably need to share your debt service coverage ratio with your lender. You can figure this out by taking your net operating income and dividing it by the principle and interest rate of the loan that you want to get. 

The bank is interested in having this number so that they’ll know whether you’re likely to be able to repay the money that you’re wanting to borrow. 

Top Things to Know Before Getting a Multifamily Loan

Many people don’t realize that it’s usually not possible to borrow more than five hundred thousand dollars with a conventional loan. But those who purchase multifamily homes often are able to get bigger loans. 

If you are going to be a landlord for a multifamily home, it’s also possible that you’ll be able to use your expected rental income to help you to qualify for a loan. But you’ll also need to prove to your lender that you have a stable income. 

It’s Easier to Get Multifamily Loans that You Might Think 

If you’ve been wondering what the process of getting multifamily loans involves, keep in mind that there are several kinds of loans that you can get. If you are a veteran, you should consider getting a VA multifamily loan. FHA multifamily loans typically have the lowest interest rates. 

Are you interested in finding out more about finances? If so, don’t forget to check out the money section of our blog.