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Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan Guide

How Are Contractors Paid During the Renovation Process?

Funds are held in a construction escrow account and released through construction draws as work is completed. The program also allows an initial builder advance at closing and an additional advance after required permits are obtained.

Escrowed Funds, Then Inspection-Based Draws

After your Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan closes, renovation dollars are placed into a construction escrow account — not paid to the contractor in one lump sum. Contractors are paid through scheduled construction draws as work progresses and inspections are completed.

The program also supports early funding: 10% initial builder funding at closing, plus an additional 10% released when required permits are provided. Draw holdbacks apply (5% generally; 10% in Texas) to protect against incomplete work.

Ryan and Steve walk you through the draw schedule, one-general-contractor requirement, and inspection timing so your GC knows exactly when and how payments will release.

At a Glance

Payment methodEscrowed construction draws
At closing10% initial builder funding
After permitsAdditional 10% advance
Draw frequencyUp to 2 per month
Draw holdback5% (10% in Texas)
ContractorsOne general contractor
Construction period15 months from closing
ExitRefinance or sell

How Contractor Payments Flow

From closing advances through final draw — the interim construction payment sequence.

Close with builder advance

10% initial builder funding can be released at closing so the project can start without waiting on the first inspection draw.

Permit advance

An additional 10% is released when required permits are provided — supporting early materials and mobilization.

Inspection-based draws

Remaining renovation funds stay in escrow and release as work is completed and inspected — up to two draws per month.

Holdback until completion

A draw holdback (5%, or 10% in Texas) helps ensure remaining work is finished before full funds are released.

What Borrowers Should Plan For

One general contractor

The program requires one GC. Subcontractors are typically paid through that GC — not as separate draw payees on the interim loan.

Inspection timing

Draws depend on completed work and inspections. Build inspection lead time into your construction calendar so the GC is not waiting on paperwork.

Eligible soft costs

Draw inspections, final inspection (1004D), title updates, permit fees, contingency, construction management fee, and interest reserve can be financed when guidelines allow.

Clear exit still required

Contractor payments are temporary construction funding. When work is done, refinance into permanent financing or sell to pay off the interim note.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are contractors paid during the renovation process?

Funds are held in a construction escrow account and released through construction draws as work is completed. The program also allows an initial builder advance at closing and an additional advance after required permits are obtained.

Is there funding available at closing?

Yes. The program allows 10% initial builder funding at closing, plus an additional 10% released when required permits are provided.

How many draws can I request each month?

The program allows up to two construction draws per month as work progresses and inspections are completed.

How many general contractors are allowed?

One general contractor is required for the project under this interim renovation program.

Need a Draw Schedule That Matches Your GC?

Ryan & Steve will map closing advances, permit funding, and inspection-based draws for your Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan.

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.

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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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