Learn key fix and flip loan requirements including credit scores, down payments, ARV limits, and how first-time real estate flippers can qualify.
TL;DR: Fix and flip loans focus on property potential rather than personal tax returns, typically requiring a 660+ FICO, 10-20% down payment, and 100% rehab funding while capping total loan value at 65-75% of ARV.
A complete breakdown of every fix and flip loan requirement in 2026 — credit, down payment, ARV cap, rehab scope, reserves, and experience — from a lender who underwrites these deals daily.
Qualify based on deal math (purchase price, rehab, ARV) rather than personal tax returns.
Requires a 660+ FICO, 10-20% down on purchase, 3-6 months interest reserves, and an LLC.
Total loan (purchase plus rehab) is strictly capped at 65-75% of After-Repair Value (ARV).
First-time flippers can qualify with 720+ credit, larger down payments, and experienced contractors.
Do I need experience to get a fix and flip loan? No, but experienced investors get better pricing and leverage. First-time flippers typically see 5% lower LTC and 25-75 bps higher interest rates.
How much down payment do I need for a fix and flip? Standard requirements are 10-20% of the purchase price, with 100% of the rehab funded through draws. Total cash-to-close typically runs 15-25% of the total project cost.
What credit score is required for a fix and flip loan? Most programs require a 660 minimum FICO score, though some experienced-investor programs accept down to 620, and scores of 740+ unlock the best rates.