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Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan Guide

Can I Tear Down and Rebuild a Home with an Interim Construction Loan?

Yes. Unlike many renovation loan programs, the Interim Construction Loan permits tear-down and rebuild projects.

Tear-Down/Rebuild Is an Allowed Repair Type

Many permanent renovation products limit how far you can go — especially when the existing structure must come down. The Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan matrix explicitly allows tear-down and rebuild, alongside structural repairs, foundation work, and other major scopes.

Because the product is a short-term interim construction loan, it fits projects that need full rebuild timelines, frequent draws (up to two per month), and a clear exit into permanent financing or sale once the new home is complete.

Ryan and Steve help you line up permits, GC selection, draw schedule, and permanent take-out qualification so a tear-down/rebuild does not stall between demolition and certificate of occupancy.

At a Glance

Tear-down & rebuildEligible repair type
Structural repairsAllowed
Foundation workAllowed
Min loan amount$100,000
Min repairs$50,000
Construction period15 months from closing
DrawsUp to 2 per month
ContractorOne general contractor
ExitRefinance or sell

How a Tear-Down/Rebuild Typically Flows

Same interim mechanics as other major rehabs — with more emphasis on permits, inspections, and construction timeline.

Close the interim loan

Funds for eligible construction costs are escrowed. Limited builder advances may be available at closing and after required permits are provided.

Demolish and rebuild on draws

Your general contractor is paid through inspection-based draws — up to two per month — as demolition and rebuild milestones are completed.

Interest-only during construction

The eligible product is a 12-month interest-only interim loan. An interest reserve may be financed to reduce out-of-pocket carrying costs.

Exit when the home is complete

Pay off the interim note by refinancing into permanent financing or selling. Borrowers must qualify for permanent financing at 1% above market rate during underwriting.

Why This Beats Many Traditional Reno Products

Tear-down explicitly allowed

Many FHA/conventional renovation programs restrict or prohibit full tear-down. This interim product lists tear-down and rebuild as an eligible repair.

Higher loan amounts

First lien up to $1.5 million and second lien up to $500,000 support larger rebuild budgets than many traditional renovation products.

Frequent draw access

Up to two draws per month helps keep rebuild schedules moving when materials and trades need timely funding.

Clear short-term structure

You are not forced into a permanent renovation mortgage you never intended to keep — refinance or sell when the rebuild is done.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I tear down and rebuild with this loan?

Yes. Unlike many renovation loan programs, the Interim Construction Loan permits tear-down and rebuild projects under the Luminate Bank Interim Renovation Loan program.

Is tear-down treated like a regular remodel?

Tear-down and rebuild is an eligible repair type on the matrix, but timelines, permits, draws, and permanent take-out qualification still apply — plan the full construction period carefully.

How long do I have to complete the rebuild?

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

Do I still need a general contractor?

Yes. The program contemplates one general contractor. DIY work is only permitted on investment properties when the borrower is licensed.

Planning a Tear-Down and Rebuild?

Ryan & Steve will review your demolition plan, rebuild budget, and permanent take-out 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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