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Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan Guide

Can I Use an Interim Construction Loan for a Fix-and-Flip Property?

Yes. The program specifically identifies Renovation/Fix & Flip as an eligible use, making it a popular financing option for real estate investors.

Built for Investors Who Buy, Renovate, and Exit

Many permanent renovation mortgages are designed for owner-occupants who keep the long-term loan. The Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan is different — it is classified as a renovation and fix-and-flip product, so investors can finance purchase (or refinance) plus major rehab on a short-term, interest-only note.

After closing, renovation funds sit in escrow and release through construction draws as work is inspected. You make interest-only payments during the construction period, then pay off the interim loan by selling the flipped property or refinancing into permanent financing.

Ryan and Steve help flippers map scope, draw cadence (up to two draws per month), and exit timing against program guidelines before you lock in an interim construction structure.

At a Glance

Use caseRenovation / Fix & Flip
OccupancyInvestment property eligible
LTV (investment)Up to 75% · $1.5M
Min loan amount$100,000
Min repairs$50,000
Max first lienUp to $1,500,000
DrawsUp to 2 per month
Construction period15 months from closing
ExitSell or refinance

Why Flips Fit Interim Construction

Short-term structure, escrowed rehab funds, and a clear exit — not a permanent mortgage you never intended to keep.

Purchase + rehab in one note

Finance the acquisition and eligible renovation costs together instead of stacking hard-money rehab lines with separate purchase financing.

Interest-only carrying costs

During the 12-month interest-only term, you pay interest on disbursed funds while the flip is under construction — not full principal and interest.

Frequent draw access

Up to two construction draws per month support larger scopes that need materials and labor released as work progresses.

Defined payoff path

When the project is done, sell or refinance into permanent financing. Borrowers must qualify for permanent financing at 1% above the market rate during underwriting.

Flip Project Checklist

Minimum $50,000 repairs

The program requires a meaningful renovation scope — ideal for gut rehabs, not light cosmetic flips under the minimum.

One general contractor

Plan on a single GC for the project. Draw holdback is typically 5% (10% in Texas), with limited builder advances at closing and after permits.

Investment LTV planning

Expect tighter LTVs on investment occupancy — commonly up to 75% up to $1.5 million on purchase or refinance.

Credit & loan size

Generally 700 for conforming loan amounts and 720 for amounts above conforming limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is fix-and-flip an eligible use for this program?

Yes. The Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan specifically identifies Renovation/Fix & Flip as an eligible use, making it a popular financing option for real estate investors.

Do I have to refinance after the flip, or can I sell?

Either exit works. The interim loan is designed to be paid off by selling the property or refinancing into permanent financing once construction is complete.

What LTV applies on investment flips?

Investment property LTV is typically up to 75% for purchase or refinance up to $1.5 million, subject to underwriting and property guidelines.

How long do I have to complete the renovation?

Borrowers generally have 15 months from closing to complete the renovation project, with a 12-month interest-only interim loan product.

Planning a Fix-and-Flip?

Ryan & Steve will review your acquisition, rehab budget, and sale or refinance exit against Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan guidelines.

All loans are subject to credit and property approval. Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan program guidelines, LTV limits, loan amounts, and pricing are subject to change without notice and may not be available in all areas. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Information is for educational purposes only and is not a commitment to lend.

The 2 Mortgage Guys logo
The 2 Mortgage Guys

Ryan Minick and Steve DeLon — Branch Managers & Senior Loan Officers at Luminate Bank. Based in Kokomo, Indiana. Lending nationwide since 2005.

Contact

(765) 450-8933

[email protected]

Ryan Minick NMLS# 203249

Steve DeLon NMLS# 202876

Luminate Bank NMLS# 1281698

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Kokomo's Mortgage Team. Lending Nationwide.

1221 Appletree Lane, Kokomo, IN 46902

NMLS Consumer Access

Luminate Bank NMLS 1281698 Bank Headquarters 2523 S. Wayzata Blvd., Suite 100 Minneapolis, MN 55405 (952) 939-7200. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Information provided is outlining the minimum down payment requirements as allowed by specific loan program and product guidelines and any information, rates and programs are subject to change without prior notice and may not be available in all states. All loans are subject to credit and property approval. Luminate Bank is not affiliated with any government agency. All rights reserved.

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