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Writer's pictureColin Dubel

How Down Payments & Loan Amounts are Determined by the Lender

Commercial real estate lenders determine the required down payment and maximum loan amount on a commercial mortgage by evaluating several factors. The following are some of the factors that lenders consider when making these determinations:

  1. Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV): This is the ratio of the loan amount to the appraised value of the property. Lenders typically set a maximum LTV ratio, which is the highest percentage of the property value that they are willing to lend. For example, if the appraised value of a property is $1 million, and the maximum LTV ratio is 80%, the maximum loan amount would be $800,000.

  2. Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR): This is a measure of the property's ability to generate sufficient income to cover the mortgage payments. Lenders typically require a minimum DSCR ratio, which is the ratio of net operating income (NOI) to the mortgage payment. For example, if the mortgage payment is $50,000 per year, and the NOI is $75,000 per year, the DSCR would be 1.5.

  3. Creditworthiness of the Borrower: Lenders evaluate the credit history and financial strength of the borrower to determine the level of risk associated with the loan. A borrower with a strong credit history and financials may be able to secure a larger loan amount with a lower down payment.

  4. Property Type and Location: Lenders also consider the type and location of the property. Some types of properties, such as hotels and restaurants, may be considered higher risk and require a larger down payment. Properties located in high-demand areas may be eligible for higher LTV ratios.

  5. Loan Term: The length of the loan term can also impact the required down payment and maximum loan amount. Short-term loans may require a larger down payment, while longer-term loans may allow for a smaller down payment.

The criteria used by commercial real estate lenders to determine the required down payment and maximum loan amount can vary from lender to lender, as different lenders may have different risk appetites and underwriting guidelines. Here are some of the ways in which this can vary:

  1. Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV): Some lenders may be willing to lend up to 85% or even 90% of the appraised value of a property, while others may only be willing to lend up to 70% or 75%. This can depend on factors such as the lender's risk appetite, the type and location of the property, and the creditworthiness of the borrower.

  2. Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR): Different lenders may have different minimum DSCR requirements, with some requiring a DSCR of 1.2 or higher, while others may require a DSCR of 1.5 or higher. This can depend on the lender's risk appetite and the type of property being financed.

  3. Creditworthiness of the Borrower: Lenders may have different credit score requirements or may require different financial documentation from borrowers. Some lenders may be willing to work with borrowers who have less established credit histories or lower credit scores, while others may only lend to borrowers with a strong credit history and high credit scores.

  4. Property Type and Location: Some lenders may specialize in financing certain types of properties, such as office buildings or industrial warehouses, while others may have a broader focus. Lenders may also have different requirements for properties located in different regions or markets.

  5. Loan Term: Lenders may have different minimum and maximum loan terms, and may also offer different types of loan structures, such as fixed-rate or variable-rate loans.

In summary, the specific criteria used by commercial real estate lenders to determine the required down payment and maximum loan amount can vary based on the lender's risk appetite, underwriting guidelines, and target market. Borrowers should therefore shop around and compare multiple lenders to find the best financing options for their particular situation.


If you have any questions about this article or would like to discuss a scenario of your own with our team, please feel free to contact Colin Dubel at colin@harborwestcommercial.com or 949-735-6415.

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