What types of loans does CoFi offer, and where do they lend?

CoFi specializes in construction financing for builders and developers: Ground-Up Development, Investment Property Construction & SFR Development Financing. If you’re a real estate investor, broker, developer, or ground-up builder financing single-family, multi-unit, or multifamily residential construction, this section clarifies how CoFi’s financing works for your projects. CoFi is licensed to lend in 45 U.S. States.
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What types of construction loans does CoFi provide?

Builder Loans for:

New Construction

Single-Family (SFR) Builder Loans

  • Spec Loans
  • Custom Spec Loans
  • SFR Multi-Unit (2-4 units) Loans
  • Model Homes
  • Small Subdivision Development
  • Tract Homes
  • Modular and Manufactured Builder Loans

Multifamily (5+ units) Builder Loans

  • Townhomes
  • Condominiums
  • Build-to-Rent

Lot Acquisition & Development (A&D) + Ground-Up Construction

What are CoFi’s loan limits and general terms?

Single-Family

Multifamily (5+ Units)

Land A&D

Loan Size

$150K – $5M

$500K – $10M

Up to $5M

Term

6–18 months

6–24 months

12–18 months

Rate

> 9.75%

> 10.00%

> 10.00%

Max LTV / LTC

75% / 85%*

70% / 80–85%

62.5% / 62.5%

Min. FICO

660

700

680

*70% LTV for Luxury Spec (ARV > $2.5M) or outside a defined MSA.

General guideline only — subject to full underwriting, appraisal, and credit committee approval.

What states does CoFi lend in?

CoFi provides builder loans in the following states:

Alabama

Hawaii

Michigan

North Dakota

Virginia

Alaska

Idaho

Mississippi

Ohio

Washington

Arizona

Illinois

Missouri

Oklahoma

West Virginia

Arkansas

Indiana

Montana

Oregon

Wisconsin

California

Iowa

Nebraska

Pennsylvania

Wyoming

Colorado

Kansas

New Hampshire

Rhode Island

Connecticut

Kentucky

New Jersey

South Carolina

Delaware

Louisiana

New Mexico

Tennessee

Florida

Maryland

New York

Texas

Georgia

Massachusetts

North Carolina

Utah

Spec Home Loans & Speculative Construction Financing

What are spec home loans?

Spec home loans are construction financing for homes built before a buyer is secured. Builders develop single-family homes on speculation, betting on market demand. CoFi provides tailored spec home financing with quick approvals, competitive rates, and flexible draw schedules that keep projects on track.

Does CoFi fund single-family spec homes?

Yes. CoFi specializes in New Construction financing for single-family home builders, including spec builds. We understand the unique cash flow challenges of spec development and offer solutions designed by builders, for builders.

How long does approval take for a spec home loan?

CoFi prioritizes speed without sacrificing diligence. Most approvals happen within 5–10 business days, depending on documentation completeness. Our streamlined underwriting and software platform reduce delays common with traditional lenders, helping you close faster and get to construction.

What rates and terms does CoFi offer for spec homes?

CoFi offers competitive rates and flexible terms tailored to your project profile. Rates vary based on loan amount, location, builder experience, and market conditions. Contact our team for a personalized quote.

Can I get financing for multiple spec homes at once?

Yes. CoFi provides portfolio financing for builders managing multiple spec projects. Whether you’re financing one home or a small portfolio, we work with you to structure loans that match your cash flow and development schedule.

Custom Spec Homes & Semi-Custom Construction

What’s the difference between a spec home and a custom spec home?

Spec homes are built for the open market with standardized designs. Custom spec homes blend spec development with semi-custom options—builders develop with flexible floor plan layouts, finishes, or upgrades that let future buyers customize within a framework. CoFi finances both models.

Does CoFi lend for semi-custom builds?

Absolutely. Semi-custom and custom spec homes carry slightly different underwriting than pure spec, but CoFi’s New Construction program covers both. We understand that custom options can extend timelines or require larger upfront investment—we work with you to structure terms that fit.

Model Home Construction Loans

Can CoFi finance model homes for a subdivision or tract development?

Yes. Model homes are an essential part of Production & Tract financing. CoFi includes model home construction in our multi-unit and tract development loans, recognizing that builders need showcase homes to drive sales in larger subdivisions.

How are model homes financed differently from spec homes?

Model homes are typically funded as part of a broader subdivision or tract loan rather than as standalone loans. The lending structure accounts for the entire development phase, with model home budgets built into the overall project draw schedule.

Townhome Loans & Multi-Unit Construction Financing

Does CoFi fund townhome construction?

Yes. CoFi’s Production & Tract program provides financing for attached housing, including townhomes and townhouse developments. Whether you’re building a 4-unit townhome project or a 40-unit complex, we offer customized loans with competitive rates.

What’s included in CoFi’s Production & Tract financing?

Production & Tract financing covers multi-unit, attached, or detached developments. This includes townhomes, duplexes, small apartment buildings, and subdivision builds. Loans are structured to fund land acquisition, infrastructure, and individual unit construction with flexible draws tied to project milestones.

How much can I borrow for a townhome project?

Loan amounts vary based on project scope, location, builder experience, and market conditions. CoFi funds projects ranging from small multi-unit developments to larger tract builds. Contact our team to discuss your project size and financing needs.

Subdivision Loans & Land Development Financing

Does CoFi offer subdivision financing or land development loans?

Yes. CoFi’s Production & Tract program specializes in subdivision and tract development financing. We fund land acquisition, infrastructure development (roads, utilities, grading), and individual lot construction for builders developing residential subdivisions.

What does a subdivision loan typically cover?

Subdivision loans cover the full development cost: land purchase, infrastructure (roads, drainage, utilities), site work, and per-unit construction financing. CoFi structures draws around development phases—from land acquisition through lot improvements to individual home construction—so you draw funds as you spend.

Can CoFi finance a subdivision with 10 lots? 50 lots? 100+ lots?

CoFi finances subdivisions of all sizes, from small multi-lot tracts to large-scale developments. Underwriting and loan structure scale with project complexity. Larger subdivisions may benefit from phased lending approaches that spread funding and reduce risk as the development progresses.

What are tract development loans?

Tract development loans finance the building of multiple homes on contiguous land. Also called “production loans,” they typically cover both the land and individual unit construction. CoFi’s tract financing supports builders developing residential communities from the ground up.

Does CoFi work with Brokers? Yes!

What is CoFi’s Loan Broker Program?

CoFi Lending partners directly with brokers who bring us business-purpose construction and bridge deals across single-family, multifamily, and land acquisition & development. As a direct lender, we underwrite in-house and fund from our own balance sheet, which means faster decisions and fewer hand-offs. Brokers are represented on every closing statement, and we fund broker fees from loan proceeds wherever leverage allows. Most complete files receive a credit decision in 30–60 days, with draw turnarounds of 7–10 business days. Brokers who work with us regularly can also join our Preferred Partner Program for enhanced pricing and priority service.

General Loan & Process Questions

How quickly can I get funded?

CoFi prioritizes fast funding. Most loans close within 15–30 days of approval. Our automated software platform and experienced team eliminate delays common with traditional construction lenders, so you can start construction and manage cash flow efficiently.

Do I need to be an experienced builder to qualify?

No. While builder experience is underwritten, CoFi works with builders at all levels—from seasoned GCs to first-time builders. Your team’s qualifications, project fundamentals, and market conditions matter more than years in business. Contact us to discuss your profile.

What are CoFi’s draw and payment processes?

CoFi’s software platform streamlines draws and payments. You submit draws through our portal with photos and documentation; we process them quickly. Payments flow to contractors and suppliers automatically, reducing manual work and speeding up cash flow. Many builders report paying contractors 10 days faster with CoFi.

Can I access my loan account 24/7?

Yes. CoFi’s loan servicing software gives you 24/7 access to your loan account, draw history, project timeline, and payment status. You can submit draws anytime, monitor progress in real time, and manage your project from your phone or computer.

What documentation do I need to apply?

Typical requirements include personal financial statements, business financials, project plans, construction budgets, proof of land ownership or purchase agreement, builder resume, and personal credit documentation. Our team will provide a complete checklist when you apply.

Does CoFi finance construction in my state?

CoFi is licensed to lend in California, Idaho, Oregon, and Utah. We primarily serve the Mountain West and West Coast regions. If you’re outside these states, contact us to explore options or learn about future expansion.

How is CoFi different from traditional banks?

CoFi was built by builders, for builders. We combine construction lending expertise with technology that traditional banks lack. Faster approvals, automated draws, 24/7 account access, transparent communication, and software designed specifically for construction finance set us apart. We understand your business because we’ve been in it.

What makes CoFi’s software different?

CoFi’s software integrates lending and project management. Submit draws, track payments, manage timelines, and communicate with your lender in one place. Contractors and suppliers get paid faster, project transparency increases, and you reduce administrative burden—that’s construction financing the way it should work.

How do I apply for a construction loan?

Start by clicking “Apply Now” on our website or contacting our team directly. We’ll discuss your project, explain loan options, and provide an application checklist. Most builders complete the process in under two weeks.

CoFi for Investors vs. Traditional 'Private Lenders'

Is CoFi a private lender for residential real estate?

CoFi is a construction finance lender—think of it as specialized in construction lending, not traditional private money lending. If your project involves ground-up development or new construction (spec homes, custom builds, subdivisions, townhomes), CoFi is an excellent fit. If you’re looking for investment property cash-out refinancing or rehab loans on existing homes, CoFi may not be the right match.

Can CoFi finance my investment property construction project?

Yes—if your investment project is new construction. CoFi funds ground-up residential development, spec homes, custom builds, townhomes, and subdivisions built by investors/developers. CoFi does not finance cash-out refis, fix-and-flip on existing properties, or bridge loans for investors.

What’s the difference between CoFi and traditional ‘investment property lenders’?

Traditional investment property lenders focus on existing properties, cash-out refinancing, and rehabs. CoFi specializes in construction finance—we fund the build process itself. If you’re constructing new residential units from the ground up, we’re the specialist. If you need financing for a completed property or a rehab of an existing structure, you’ll want a different lender.

I’m a ground-up developer or investor builder. Can CoFi finance my projects?

Absolutely. CoFi’s entire business is built around construction finance for developers and builders. Whether you’re developing spec homes, custom builds, subdivision tracts, or multi-unit residential, CoFi provides the construction financing and software platform to manage your projects efficiently.

I’m an investor builder, not a professional contractor. Can I still qualify?

Yes. CoFi works with investor/builders of all experience levels. Your team qualifications, financial strength, and project fundamentals matter more than whether you’re a licensed GC. If you have the capital, a solid project plan, and a qualified construction or project management team, you can qualify.

What Types of Investor Construction Projects Does CoFi Fund?

Can CoFi finance my ground-up SFR (single-family residential) development?

Yes. CoFi’s New Construction program is ideal for ground-up SFR projects. Whether you’re building spec homes, custom homes for sales, or investor-owned rentals, CoFi provides construction financing with quick approvals and flexible draw structures.

Can investors use CoFi for ‘SFR development’ or ‘single-family rental development’?

Yes. CoFi funds construction for investors building single-family homes for rental or hold purposes. The financing structure works the same as spec construction—you get a construction loan that funds the build, draws are tied to milestones, and you can refinance with a permanent lender once construction completes.

I’m an investor building a small residential development (5–10 lots). Can CoFi help?

Yes. CoFi’s Production & Tract program finances investor-led subdivisions and small developments. We work with investors managing multi-lot projects, from acquisition and site work through individual unit construction.

Can CoFi finance a multi-family or townhome development I’m building as an investor?

Yes. CoFi’s Production & Tract program covers multi-unit attached housing (townhomes, duplexes, garden apartments) built by investors or developers. Financing structures to match your project timeline and hold strategy.

What if I’m building a custom home for a specific buyer as an investor?

CoFi finances custom construction for investors. If you have a buyer contracted or a specific design, CoFi can structure a loan around that project. Terms and rates may vary based on whether you have a pre-sale contract.

Multifamily & Multi-Unit Residential Construction Financing

What is multifamily construction financing?

Multifamily construction financing is specialized lending for residential buildings with multiple units—typically apartment complexes, garden apartments, condos, or mixed-use developments. CoFi provides tailored financing for multifamily construction projects, whether you’re building small-scale (5-20 units) or larger developments (50+ units). We understand the unique underwriting and capital needs of multifamily development and structure loans to match project complexity and timelines.

Does CoFi fund multifamily construction projects?

Yes. CoFi’s Production & Tract program includes comprehensive financing solutions for multifamily residential construction. We fund garden apartments, small apartment buildings, condominium developments, and larger multifamily complexes built by experienced developers and investor groups. CoFi’s team has deep multifamily lending expertise and understands the capital intensity and market dynamics of multifamily development.

What types of multifamily projects does CoFi finance?

CoFi finances a range of multifamily residential construction types, including: garden apartments (2-4 story walkup), small apartment buildings (5-20 units), mid-sized multifamily complexes (20-100 units), condominium developments (both for-sale and rental), mixed-use residential (residential with ground-floor commercial), and investor-owned rental multifamily. We also finance ancillary construction on multifamily properties, such as parking structures, community amenities, and structured parking.

What loan amounts does CoFi offer for multifamily construction?

Multifamily loan amounts vary significantly based on project size, scope, location, and development stage. CoFi funds multifamily projects ranging from $2M to $25M+. Loan sizing is based on construction budgets, land value, developer equity, and permanent financing capacity. Contact our multifamily lending team to discuss the specific financing structure for your project.

What documentation is required for a multifamily construction loan?

Multifamily loan applications require comprehensive documentation: personal and business financial statements, audited or reviewed financials for experienced developers, detailed construction budgets and timeline, architectural plans and engineering drawings, site and feasibility studies, proof of land control (purchase agreement or deed), development team qualifications and experience, market analysis or feasibility report, permanent financing letter of intent or term sheet, and detailed development pro formas. CoFi will provide a complete documentation checklist tailored to your project scope.

How is multifamily construction financing different from single-family or townhome financing?

Multifamily construction loans differ in several key ways: (1) Underwriting focuses on pro forma operating economics and permanent takeout financing capacity, not just construction risk; (2) Loan structure often includes milestone-based funding tied to occupancy, pre-sales, or lease-up stages; (3) Loan amounts are significantly larger, requiring more robust equity positions and experienced development teams; (4) Permanent financing is typically market-rate multifamily lending (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, life insurance companies, or portfolio lenders) rather than individual buyer mortgages; (5) The loan timeline may extend beyond construction into stabilization or initial lease-up. CoFi’s multifamily expertise ensures efficient underwriting and competitive terms for complex development projects.

What are CoFi’s LTV and equity requirements for multifamily construction loans?

LTV and equity requirements vary based on project profile, developer experience, and market conditions. Typical multifamily construction loans are structured at 75–85% LTV, requiring developers to invest 15–25% equity. Experienced developers with strong balance sheets and market-rate projects may qualify for higher LTVs. CoFi evaluates each multifamily project individually to determine appropriate financing and equity structures.

Can CoFi finance multifamily projects in different stages of development?

Yes. CoFi structures multifamily loans to match development stage and risk. We finance pre-development (land acquisition and entitlements), construction phase (build-out from foundation to completion), and sometimes bridge or extended-term financing for newly completed stabilizing assets. Draw schedules and milestone funding are customized to your project plan, whether that’s traditional construction draw structures or phased/conditional funding based on occupancy, lease-up targets, or permanent financing capacity.

Contact CoFi’s multifamily lending team to discuss your project stage and financing needs.

How Construction Financing Works at CoFi (vs. Traditional Lending)

How is CoFi’s construction financing different from a traditional real estate loan?

CoFi funds the construction process, not the finished property. You draw funds as you build—for land, labor, materials, and services—rather than receiving one lump sum. This approach reduces your cash flow burden and ties funding to actual project progress. Once construction completes, you refinance to permanent financing.

How long does a construction loan last?

Construction loans typically last 12–24 months depending on project scope and timeline. CoFi structures loans to match your project duration. Once construction is complete, you obtain permanent financing (long-term mortgage, portfolio rental loan, or sale proceeds) and pay off the construction loan.

What happens after construction is complete?

You refinance with a permanent lender. For investor rentals, that might be a bank, portfolio lender, or Fannie Mae small portfolio lender. For spec homes you’re selling, the buyer’s mortgage replaces the construction loan. CoFi’s role ends once the property qualifies for permanent financing.

Are there ‘permanent financing’ or ‘takeout financing’ requirements?

Yes. When applying for a construction loan, you’ll need a plan for permanent financing (a takeout lender or sales strategy). CoFi wants to know your exit strategy so we can structure the loan appropriately. This reduces risk for both parties.

Can I use CoFi as a bridge lender while I wait for permanent financing?

CoFi specializes in construction lending, not bridge financing. That said, CoFi’s loan terms are flexible and can accommodate project delays. If your permanent financing is slightly delayed, contact our team to discuss timing. For a project that needs pure bridge financing (non-construction), you’d want a dedicated bridge lender.

Rates, Terms & Cost of Capital

What are CoFi’s rates and terms for investor construction loans?

CoFi offers competitive construction financing rates. Rates vary based on loan amount, project location, your financial profile, market conditions, and loan structure. Contact CoFi for a personalized quote tied to your specific project.

Are rates the same for investor builders as for licensed contractors?

Rates depend on your financial strength, project profile, and risk assessment—not your license type. An experienced investor with strong financials may receive better terms than a new contractor, or vice versa.

Do CoFi loans have prepayment penalties?

CoFi’s terms vary. Most construction loans allow prepayment without penalty, which is beneficial if your project finishes early or a buyer closes ahead of schedule. Confirm prepayment terms in your loan agreement.

What are typical loan amounts for investor construction projects?

CoFi funds projects ranging from single homes to large subdivisions. Loan amounts scale with project scope, from under $1M for small builds to multi-million for large developments. Contact CoFi to discuss your project size.

Qualification & Underwriting Process

What do I need to qualify for a CoFi construction loan as an investor?

Typical documentation includes: personal financial statements, business financials (if applicable), credit history, project plans and budgets, proof of land ownership or purchase agreement, team/contractor qualifications, experience resume, and a permanent financing plan (takeout strategy). CoFi will provide a full checklist.

What’s CoFi’s loan-to-value (LTV) policy for construction loans?

LTV varies by project profile, location, and your equity position. CoFi may finance 80–90% of project costs or land value, depending on risk factors. Stronger projects and borrower profiles may qualify for higher LTVs.

Do I need to put down a deposit or minimum equity?

Most construction loans require 10–20% skin in the game (your equity). This aligns incentives and reduces risk. The exact requirement depends on your project, your financials, and market conditions.

How quickly can I get approved and funded?

CoFi prioritizes speed. Most approvals happen within 5–10 business days with complete documentation. Funding typically closes within 15–30 days of approval. CoFi’s streamlined underwriting moves faster than traditional banks.

I’m a first-time investor builder. Can I still qualify?

Yes. CoFi works with first-time investor/builders if your team is qualified, your project is sound, and your financials are strong. Having experienced contractors, architects, or project managers on your team helps offset limited personal development experience.

Why Choose CoFi Over Other Construction Lenders?

How is CoFi different from construction lenders that focus more on fix-and-flip or bridge lending?

CoFi specializes in ground-up construction and development lending. We’re not trying to be everything; we’re really good at construction finance. Our software, processes, and team are built for builders and developers doing new construction—not investors doing rehabs or looking for bridge capital.

Why would I choose CoFi over a traditional bank for construction financing?

Speed, transparency, and expertise. Banks often take 60–90 days to approve construction loans and lack construction-specific software. CoFi approves in 5–10 days, provides 24/7 account access, automates draws and payments, and has a team that actually understands construction workflow. You’ll spend less time managing financing and more time building.

What’s CoFi’s software platform and why does it matter?

CoFi’s software lets you manage your construction loan 24/7. Submit draws with photos, track payments in real time, manage contractor/supplier payments, and communicate with your lender—all in one place. Contractors get paid faster, you have full project visibility, and administrative overhead drops significantly.

Is CoFi really a better fit than traditional ‘investor lenders’ for construction projects?

For new construction, yes. If you’re doing ground-up development, CoFi’s construction expertise, speed, and technology beat general-purpose investment lenders. If you’re buying an existing property, seeking investment property refinancing, or doing a rehab, you’d want a lender focused on those areas. CoFi is the specialist for construction.

Getting Started with CoFi

How do I apply as an investor?

Start by visiting cofilending.com and clicking “Apply Now” or contact our team at cofilending.com/contact. You’ll discuss your project, clarify loan needs, and receive an application checklist. Most applications are completed within 1–2 weeks.

Can CoFi finance projects in my state?

CoFi is licensed in California, Idaho, Oregon, and Utah. We primarily serve Mountain West and West Coast projects. If your project is outside these states, contact us to discuss options or learn about future expansion.

What’s the next step?

Contact CoFi with your project details. We’ll discuss loan options, timeline, and next steps. Our team is here to help you move from idea to funded construction.

Who do I contact with questions?

Contact us via our website at cofilending.com/contact or call our team directly. We’re here to answer questions about your specific project and help you move forward.

Ready to get started?

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