
Getting a conventional mortgage as an LLC can be a bit more complicated than as an individual, but it's not impossible. To qualify for a conventional mortgage, the LLC must have a good credit history, which means a credit score of 700 or higher.
The LLC must also have a solid financial foundation, with a stable income and manageable debt. This can be achieved by maintaining a consistent income stream and keeping debt levels under control.
To qualify for a conventional mortgage, the LLC must also have a minimum of 20% down payment. This is a standard requirement for conventional mortgages and can be a challenge for some LLCs.
However, with the right preparation and planning, an LLC can qualify for a conventional mortgage and secure the financing it needs to grow and thrive.
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Getting a Conventional Mortgage as an LLC
Getting a conventional mortgage as an LLC can be a bit more complicated than applying for a personal mortgage. Conventional lenders don't love writing mortgages for LLC rental properties and often make it difficult for business owners.
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You'll need to provide a personal guarantee, a credit report, and personal financial information to the lender. The loan will be a recourse loan, and the lender will come after your other income-producing assets if something goes wrong.
To get a conventional mortgage for an LLC, you'll typically need to bring a down payment of at least 25 percent to the table. This is because these loans are riskier than traditional mortgages, and a heftier down payment helps minimize potential losses if the LLC defaults on the loan agreement.
You'll also need to provide financial documents, such as articles of organization, operating agreements, and company bank statements for the past six to 12 months. Additionally, you'll need to provide financial data for each member of the LLC.
Here's a list of documents you may need to provide to the lender:
- Articles of organization and current status from the Secretary of State
- Operating Agreement (if you have one handy)
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS
- Company bank statements for the past six to 12 months
- Financial documents (i.e., profit and loss statements) and any documentation related to the company's rental properties (if applicable)
- Financial data (i.e., earnings, outstanding debt obligations) for each member of the LLC
Keep in mind that the lender will report the mortgage on your credit report, which can affect your personal credit score. To minimize this impact, it's essential to have a solid business credit history.
Benefits and Advantages
Using an LLC to get a conventional mortgage offers several benefits and advantages. One of the most significant advantages is member protections, which means owners of the LLC won't be held personally liable if the mortgage goes into default unless there's a personal guarantee.
LLCs also provide enhanced privacy, as the owner's names won't be disclosed on mortgage documents that are filed with the county. This is particularly beneficial for celebrities or high-net-worth individuals who want to keep their real estate acquisitions private.
Here are some key benefits of using an LLC to get a mortgage:
Benefits of Using an LLC
Using an LLC for your real estate business can provide a range of benefits. Here are some of the most significant advantages:
Limited personal liability is a major perk of operating under an LLC. This means that your personal assets are protected from lawsuits and debts related to the property, limiting liability to the assets within the LLC.
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With pass-through taxation, you can avoid double taxation and report profits and losses on your personal tax returns. This can be a huge advantage for real estate investors.
Transferring ownership of an LLC is also relatively straightforward. You can simply transfer LLC membership interests without the need to execute new deeds, making it easier to sell or transfer ownership.
LLCs may be perceived as more professional or credible, potentially making it easier to access financing. This can be a significant advantage for real estate investors who need to secure loans or mortgages.
Here are some of the key benefits of using an LLC to get a mortgage:
Overall, using an LLC for your real estate business can provide a range of benefits and advantages. By protecting your personal assets, simplifying ownership transfers, and enhancing your credibility, you can take your real estate investing to the next level.
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Community Bank Benefits
Community banks can offer cheaper rates than nationwide or regional landlord lenders.
They may require less income documentation, making it easier to qualify for a loan.
You can ask local community banks about their LTV requirements, which could be more favorable than larger lenders.
Their interest rates and points may be lower, saving you money on closing costs.
Some community banks offer renovation-perm loans or construction-perm loans, which automatically roll over to a permanent 30-year mortgage after construction or renovation is complete.
This eliminates the need for a refinance, saving you time and money on closing costs.
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Risks and Challenges
Getting a conventional mortgage as an LLC can be a bit tricky, and it's essential to be aware of the potential risks and challenges involved.
One major challenge is that conventional lenders often require personal guarantees from LLC members, which can put their personal assets at risk.
This can be a significant drawback, especially for those who value their personal financial independence.
LLCs may also struggle to qualify for conventional mortgages due to their unique ownership structure, which can make it difficult to establish a clear credit history.
To mitigate this risk, some LLCs may consider applying for a mortgage with a co-signer or a personal guarantee, but this can be a double-edged sword.
Liability for Defaults
If you default on a loan for an LLC-owned rental property, the lender can come after you personally, thanks to a personal guarantee you signed.
Typically, lenders require you to sign a personal guarantee, making you personally liable for loan payments.
You default on the rental property LLC mortgage, and the lender forecloses, which can lead to a judgment against you personally.
If the property doesn't bring enough at foreclosure auction to cover your balance, the lender can file for a judgment against you personally.
That judgment often attaches to your house and car, and the lender can even garnish your wages if they like.
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Stricter Requirements
Lenders require a higher down payment to approve a mortgage for an LLC-owned property, with at least 25 percent typically needed.
This is because loans for LLCs are considered riskier than traditional mortgages, so a larger down payment helps minimize potential losses if the LLC defaults on the loan agreement.
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You'll also have to submit a lot more paperwork compared to applying for a traditional mortgage, including financial documents such as profit and loss statements and company bank statements for the past six to 12 months.
Here's a list of some of the specific documents you may need to provide:
- Articles of organization and current status from the Secretary of State
- Operating Agreement (if you have one handy)
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- Company bank statements for the past six to 12 months
- Financial documents (i.e., profit and loss statements) and any documentation related to the company’s rental properties (if applicable)
- Financial data (i.e., earnings, outstanding debt obligations) for each member of the LLC
This can be a daunting task, but it's essential to be prepared and have all the necessary documents in order to increase your chances of getting approved for a mortgage.
Financing Options
LLCs can take out a loan through conventional lenders, portfolio lenders, local community banks, and private lenders.
You have a few options when taking out a mortgage loan for an LLC. One option is to use a private lender like Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions, which offers innovative financing solutions, including bank statement home loans and investor cash flow loans.
With an investor cash flow loan, you can get a mortgage between $75,000 and $1.5 million that can be placed in the LLC name, even if you already own a home as your primary residence. This loan can be used to purchase an investment property, complete a rate-term, or pull out equity through a cash-out refinance.
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Here are some benefits of the investor cash flow loan:
- This loan can be used to purchase an investment property, complete a rate-term or pull out equity through a cash-out refinance.
- There’s no limit on the number of properties you can acquire in some instances.
- You’re permitted to buy non-warrantable condos and short-term rentals with loan proceeds.
- You may be able to acquire short-term rentals, like VRBOs and Airbnbs, through this loan program.
Where to Get a Loan
If you're looking to get a loan for your LLC, you have several options to consider. Conventional lenders, portfolio lenders, local community banks, and private lenders all offer mortgage options for LLCs.
Private lenders like Angel Oak Mortgage Solutions are a great place to start. They offer a range of innovative financing solutions, including bank statement home loans and investor cash flow loans. These loans are designed for real estate investors who want to expand their portfolios without having to provide traditional income documentation.
One of the most useful options for LLC owners is the Investor Cash Flow Mortgage. This loan allows you to borrow between $75,000 and $1.5 million, and can be placed in the LLC name if you already own a home that's used as your primary residence.
Here are some benefits of the Investor Cash Flow Loan:
- This loan can be used to purchase an investment property, complete a rate-term, or pull out equity through a cash-out refinance.
- There's no limit on the number of properties you can acquire in some instances.
- You're permitted to buy non-warrantable condos and short-term rentals with loan proceeds.
- You may be able to acquire short-term rentals, like VRBOs and Airbnbs, through this loan program.
Portfolio lenders are another option to consider. They offer greater flexibility in structuring LLC mortgages to align with your investment objectives. They typically expedite funding compared to conventional lenders and credit unions.
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Portfolio loans for LLCs come with several advantages, including not reporting on your credit and not putting any restrictions on the number of existing mortgages you can have. They also reward you for having more properties, offering better rates on rental property LLC mortgages if you have more properties under your belt.
Refinancing with Bank Statements
Refinancing with bank statements can be a viable option for those who don't have a traditional income. Some lenders offer bank statement refinance loans that consider alternative income sources.
These loans allow you to use your bank statements to demonstrate your income, rather than providing tax returns or W-2s. This can be beneficial for self-employed individuals or those with variable income.
You can refinance a house with bank statements, giving you more flexibility in the refinancing process. Bank statement refinance loans are often used for no income verification home loans, which can be a good option for those who struggle to prove their income.
Definitive guides and resources are available to help you navigate bank statement home loans.
Refinancing and Credit
You can refinance existing loans under an LLC, which can be beneficial for investors with existing portfolios.
However, there are considerations to keep in mind, including building business credit, which is different from personal credit.
To build business credit, take out loans and create a solid repayment history, such as using a business credit card to pay your bills.
Your LLC credit won't be impacted by your personal credit score, so it's essential to make an intentional effort to build a solid business credit history.
The more time you spend building your business credit, the lower your interest rates will be when applying for an LLC mortgage for a rental or investment property.
Dun & Bradstreet, Equifax business, and Experian business are the most prominent business credit reporting agencies.
You can transfer a property to your LLC if you own your home outright, but if your home is subject to a mortgage, the due-on-sale clause will be activated, requiring full repayment of the mortgage.
Starting and Managing an LLC
To start and manage an LLC, you'll need to work with a qualified attorney to complete the necessary paperwork. This is a crucial step in establishing your business structure.
Different states have different regulations for an LLC, so it's essential to research and comply with your state's specific requirements. You'll also need to obtain an employee identification number or EIN from the IRS, which is required for financial operations like opening a business bank account and credit cards.
Using your social security number as a business identifier defeats the purpose of creating an LLC and may expose you to significant financial liability.
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Building Business Credit
Building business credit is essential for your LLC to access more funding opportunities. Having an LLC allows you to build business credit separate from your personal credit.
To get a business credit card or bank account, you'll need an EIN, which requires establishing a business entity. This is vital for your real estate business if you're serious about it.
An LLC means you don't have to put your personal assets at risk, but that doesn't make life easy. You still need to build your business credit to get funding for investment property loans or mortgages.
The best thing to do is immediately take out loans and create a solid repayment history. You can do this with something as simple as using a business credit card to pay your bills.
Your LLC credit is different than your personal credit. You can have an excellent credit score, and it still won't impact your business credit.
What Is an LLC, and How Do I Start One?
An LLC, short for a limited liability company, is a business structure owned by one or more individuals or entities formed at a state level.
Different states have different regulations for an LLC.
An LLC is a pass-through entity for tax purposes, meaning your LLC will not pay federal, state, or local taxes directly.
You'll see the profit and loss statements of an LLC flow back to your taxes, which can directly impact your personal and business assets.
To start an LLC, you'll need to work with a qualified attorney and complete the necessary paperwork.
The IRS will give you an employee identification number or EIN once your LLC is operational, which is required for many financial operations.
You can use your social security number, but this defeats the purpose of creating an LLC and may expose you to significant financial liability.
Investment Property and Rental
You can take out a loan through an LLC, but it's essential to understand the options and requirements. Yes, LLCs can get a mortgage, and there are several options to consider.
To secure a mortgage for an LLC investment property, you'll need to establish your LLC and build its credit. Research lenders who offer mortgages for LLCs and prepare necessary financial documentation.
Most lenders will require you to provide the articles of incorporation, operating agreement, and EIN number in addition to business and personal financial information and documents.
Benefits of Rental Property Ownership
Owning rental property can be a great way to generate passive income and build wealth over time.
There are many advantages to real estate investors who are looking to start an LLC, establish business credit, and begin to take advantage of investment property mortgage rates.
One of the key benefits of rental property ownership is the potential for tax benefits, such as deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes.
Investment property mortgage rates can be lower than personal mortgage rates, which can save you money on your loan.
Rental properties can be used to generate passive income through rental income, which can be a great way to earn money without actively working for it.
Having an LLC can help you establish business credit, which can be used to qualify for better loan terms and lower interest rates.
Investment property ownership can also provide a hedge against inflation, as property values and rental income tend to increase over time.
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Rental Property Options
You can take out a loan as an LLC, and there are several options for mortgage loans.
One option is to establish your LLC and build its credit, then research lenders who offer mortgages for LLCs and understand their requirements.
To secure a mortgage for an LLC investment property, you'll typically need to provide financial documentation, including the articles of incorporation, operating agreement, and EIN number.
Having an LLC can provide member protections, so you won't be held personally liable if the mortgage goes into default unless there's a personal guarantee.
Using an LLC for a mortgage also offers enhanced privacy, as the owner's names won't be disclosed on mortgage documents.
You can create a multi-member LLC to purchase investment properties with others, and additional members can be added at a later date by buying shares.
Having an LLC allows you to separate personal and business assets, which can be beneficial for tax purposes and asset protection.
Here are some benefits of using an LLC to get a mortgage:
- Member protections
- Enhanced privacy
- Streamlined investing
- Separation of assets
Is Buying Property Worth It?
Buying property through an LLC is a great way to protect your personal assets and minimize taxes. Establishing business credit and getting a mortgage loan for an investment property takes time and effort, but it's often worth it.
You can get a loan personally, but you leave yourself exposed to legal challenges and can lose your assets if something goes wrong. Using a rental property LLC mortgage approach is often preferable.
Creating an LLC with multiple partners or entities can get complicated, requiring corporate lawyers to ensure regulatory compliance and set up the proper tax structure. This can add complexity to your agreement and tax obligations.
Working with an attorney to separate your personal and LLC lives is essential, as there are many ways the protections of an LLC can be breached. It's best to consult with an attorney to ensure you're protecting yourself.
Taking out a mortgage through your LLC can protect your privacy, shield you from legal liability, and help you minimize taxes. If you want to create generational wealth through real estate, using an LLC mortgage is a smart move.
Sources
- https://sparkrental.com/rental-property-llc-mortgage/
- https://www.banks.com/articles/mortgage/llc-property/
- https://www.upcounsel.com/can-an-llc-get-a-mortgage
- https://propertyclub.nyc/article/getting-a-mortgage-for-an-llc-property
- https://financialfreedomcountdown.com/mortgage-for-an-llc-owned-rental-property/
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