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Airbnb Loans: Best Options to Fund Your Rental Business

Airbnb property owners may need a loan to renovate or update an existing space or purchase a new property. Here, we’re taking a look at the best financing options for Airbnb investments.

Airbnb Loans
Allison Bethell
Written by:Allison Bethell
Real Estate Expert

Reviewed by: Sarah Brooks, Personal Finance Writer and Editor

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Running an Airbnb investment property can be lucrative, but it also comes with a wide array of expenses. You’ll first need to find and purchase the property, then you’ll need to fully furnish it. Once that’s done, you’ll need to continually maintain the property, pay rental listing fees, and hire a cleaner in between guests.

An Airbnb business loan can go towards purchasing a vacation rental property, renovating an existing property, or paying for ongoing property-related expenses. While loans specifically for Airbnb’s do not exist, there are plenty of other small business loans that can be used to meet your needs. 

Airbnb Loans reviewed by Finimpact

Top Picks for Small Business Loans for Airbnb

To qualify for an unsecured small business loan, you need to have an income-producing business that’s been in place for at least six months. You can then use the funds from the business loan toward your Airbnb expenses.

In this review, our team of expert reviewers has thoroughly analyzed and evaluated the rates, fees, and terms of hundreds of small business loans. We will share our findings and provide a rating methodology you can use to select the best option for your needs.

 

Best Small Business Loans for Airbnbs - Full Overview

Best Overall
gokapital review
4.1

GoKapital - Best for Large Rental Property Loan

4.1
Min. Annual Revenue
$240,000
Min. Time in Business
12 months
Min. Credit Score
630+
Key Features
  • Borrow up to $5 million
  • Loan Terms 2 to 10 years
  • Interest rates start at 25%
  • Wide range of loan offers
  • Simple application process
  • Instant pre-approval
Pros & Cons
  • Easy online application
  • Competitive rates
  • High loan amounts
  • Long loan terms
  • Must have good credit
  • Extensive paperwork may be required
Overview

GoKapital was founded in 2013 and offers nearly every type of business loan available, including commercial real estate loans and investment rental property loans. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first Airbnb or your 10th, GoKapital can help get you the funding you need. The application takes just a few minutes to fill out, and closing typically happens within three to four weeks of loan approval.

 

Main Features

GoKapital investment property loans range from $100,000 to $50 million. Terms are 5, 7, 10, 15 and 30 years with rates starting at 4%. The minimum property value is $150,000 to qualify, and you must have at least a 650 credit score. We also recommend being prepared to submit many financial documents, including three months of bank statements, a purchase agreement, a recent credit report, and a copy of appraisal, if available. If you don’t want an investment property loan, other types of loans you may qualify for from GoKapital include personal loans, business term loans, and equipment financing loans. GoKapital has representatives available by chat, email, or phone to answer any questions you may have and help you find the best product for your Airbnb business.

GoKapital is one of the only online lenders offering real estate investment property loans, so they are absolutely worth looking into if you need an Airbnb loan. It doesn’t cost anything to apply and only a soft pull is done on your credit initially, so it’s essentially risk-free to see what types of products the company has available for you.
bluevine
4

Bluevine - Best for Competitive Interest Rates

4
Min. Annual Revenue
$120,000
Min. Credit Score
625+
Min. Time in Business
6 months
Key Features
  • Funding up to $250,000
  • Interest rates as low as 4.8%
  • Loan Repayment 6-12 months terms
  • Quick and simple application
Pros & Cons
  • Low rates starting at 4.8%
  • Fast approvals
  • Only pay for what you use
  • Excellent customer support
  • Only lines of credit offered
  • Not available in every state
Overview

Bluevine offers Airbnb business loans in the form of a line of credit up to $250,000. This gives Airbnb hosts the flexibility of using funds when they need it and only repaying what they use. This can be helpful if an unexpected repair comes up or there are more vacancies than usual during the year. The Bluevine application process and funding times are quick, and there are no penalties for paying early.

 

Main Features

All loans offered by Bluevine are lines of credit. Rates start at 4.8% for well-qualified borrowers and loan limits range from $5,000 to $250,000. Loan terms are either six or twelve months and are paid back weekly or monthly. Once you pay down your balance, the funds replenish themselves and you have access to them again. To qualify, you need a minimum credit score of 625, six months in business, and $10,000 or more per month in revenue.

Bluevine’s line of credit is a good option if you already own real estate and want to turn it into an Airbnb or if you need to make repairs on an existing property. The line of credit gives you more flexibility than a typical loan structure.
biz2credit review
4

Biz2Credit - Best for Interest-only Airbnb Loans

4
Min. Annual Revenue
$250,000
Min. Time in Business
6 months
Min. Credit Score
600+
Key Features
  • Borrow up to $2 million
  • Loan Repayment 12-36 months terms
  • Variable APR depending on the applicant
  • Multiple loan types available
  • Funding in 72 hours
  • Soft credit pull
Pros & Cons
  • Interest-only options available
  • Easy application
  • Multiple loans and lenders to choose from
  • Loan details lacking on website
  • Origination and additional fees may apply
  • High annual revenue requirements
Overview

Biz2Credit offers term loans and working capital loans with fast funding times. You can use these loans to pay for cleaning, repair, and maintenance on your Airbnb. Applying for the loan won’t affect your credit and you’ll have access to a dedicated funding specialist to help you apply and choose the right you for you.

 

Main Features

Biz2Credit offers term loans and working capital loans with quick turnaround times, often as fast as 72 hours from approval to funding. Some of its Airbnb loans offer interest-only options. This makes your payments more manageable, especially during a slow season or if you have excessive repair or cleaning bills that month.

In order to qualify for a loan, you need a credit score of 575, at least six months in business, and $250,000 in annual revenue. Term loan and working capital amounts generally range from $25,000 to $2 million. Interest rates start at 7.99% and go up from there depending on market rates, property type, and borrower qualifications.

Biz2Credit is a good option if you want an Airbnb loan with some flexibility, since some loans allow you to make interest-only payments. Loan amounts provide a nice range from small sums that would help with plumbing repairs to large amounts that could help you purchase a quadruplex.
Fundbox review
4.1

Fundbox - Best for Fast Funding for Airbnb Loans

4.1
Min. Annual Revenue
$100,000
Min. Time in Business
6 months
Min. Credit Score
600+
Key Features
  • Borrow up to $150,000
  • Loan repayment 6-12 months terms
  • Interest rate 4.66% minimum
  • No monthly fees or prepayment penalties
  • Same-day or next-day funding
  • Best for business lines of credit
Pros & Cons
  • Multiple term options
  • Fast funding
  • Helpful site with clear loan explanations
  • Low loan amounts
  • Higher interest rates
Overview

Fundbox offers lines of credit and term loans up to $150,000 that can be used as Airbnb loans. They specialize in fast funding and a transparent lending process. When you fill out an online application, a soft pull is done, which doesn’t negatively affect your credit score. The application typically takes about five minutes and as soon as six minutes later, you will have an answer if your Airbnb loan was approved.

 

Main Features

With Fundbox, you can choose a term loan or a line of credit from $1,000 to $150,000. Rates for term loans start at 8.33% for 24 week terms. Rates for lines of credit start at 4.66% for 12 week terms.. Minimum credit score requirement is 600, you need to have six months or more in business, and you need at least $100,000 in annual revenue to qualify for a loan or line of credit from Fundbox.

Fundbox is a solid option if you need fast funding and a smaller loan amount. You can use the loan or line of credit to make repairs on your Airbnb property or pay employees.
credible_logo
4

Credible - Best Loan Marketplace

4
APR.
2.49% to 35.99%
Loan Amount
$600-$100,000
Min. Credit Score
560+
Key Features
  • Uses a soft pull that doesn’t affect credit
  • No minimum credit score required
  • No application or disbursement fees
Pros & Cons
  • Easy online application
  • Compare multiple rates and terms
  • Excellent customer support
  • No minimum credit score required to apply
  • Many lenders will charge origination fees
  • Some lenders will state a minimum credit score required
  • Credible does not fund your loan directly
Overview

Credible is a personal loan lending marketplace that connects you with 17 different lenders who can help fund your Airbnb business. You simply fill out one application and receive multiple loan amounts, terms, and rates to choose from. There is no application fee and no minimum credit score needed to apply. If approved, funds can be in your account as soon as the next business day.

 

Main Features

Credible features lenders offering personal loans ranging from $600 to $100,000. Repayment terms range from 12 months to seven years, allowing you to choose how quickly you wish to pay off your loan. Rates start at 5.40% for those with excellent credit scores.

Because Credible is a lending marketplace and not a direct lender, qualifications will vary substantially among lenders. To get the best rates, though, you’ll want to have a high credit score. The lowest score accepted is typically 560, but keep in mind you may need a cosigner if your score falls below that number.

If you’re not sure which lender will be the best fit for your unique circumstances, we recommend Credible as your one-stop shop for personal loans. Whether you’re looking to renovate an existing Airbnb or purchase a new one, Credible can help get you the loan you need.

How to Choose the Best Small Business Loan for an Airbnb

When choosing the best small business loan for an Airbnb, there are many important factors to consider. Our financial experts used the following criteria to rank the best Airbnb lend

  • Loan features - Know the loan terms, repayment options, and available loan amounts. If you need an Airbnb loan for $1 million and the maximum loan amount is less, then you need to look elsewhere.
  • Application process - What’s the application process like? How invasive and time-consuming is it? Will it affect your credit score or is just a soft credit pull? Does the lender have any distinctive competitive offerings? How long does the application process take and how long until Funding?
  • Interest rates and fees - Consider origination fees, appraisal fees, notary fees, and any other fees a lender may charge. We also looked at rates for different types of loans that can be used for an Airbnb.
  • Qualification process - Typically, there is a minimum credit score requirement, as well as proof of income. The lender also may want to see tax returns and/or bank statements from the last couple years.
  • Customer support - How accessible is customer support? Do they have live representatives and do they offer weekend and evening hours? Is there multi-channel support? Know what supplemental information and tools are available and if there are any specific resources on Airbnbs and vacation rental properties that would be beneficial.
  • Online user reviews - Check out independent review sites like Trustpilot to see what previous customers like and don’t like. If there are too many negative reviews, you may want to check out a different lender.
  • Perks and bonuses - Consider specified service offerings like payment flexibility, advertising transparency, and advanced technology. Payment flexibility may be important during off seasons when your property is vacant or slower than usual.

 

Main Features of the Best Airbnb Loans

Check out the table below for a quick summary and comparison of lenders and their borrower requirements.

CompanyMin. Credit ScoreMin. Time in BusinessMin. Annual RevenueLoan AmountInterest Rate
Biz2Credit5756 months$250,000$25,000 - $2 million7.99%+
Fundbox6006 months$100,000Up to $150,000Term loans: 8.33% and up  
Lines of credit: 4.66% and up
GoKapital650N/AN/A$100,000 - $50 million4%+
Bluevine6256 month$120,000$5,000 - $250,0004.8%
Credible560N/AN/A$600 - $100,0005.40%+

 

How to Use Airbnb Business Loans

Airbnb business loans can be used in a variety of ways. Below, we highlight some ways that our experts suggest using these loans:

  • Fix up an existing property: Make it Airbnb ready with new flooring, a kitchen remodel, and updated bathrooms.
  • Furnish and accessorize: Buy furniture, home decor, and art work to spruce up your space.
  • Turn empty space into an Airbnb rental: Fix up your neglected empty bedroom, studio, or mother-in-law suite, and start making rental income from spaces you already have.
  • Sublease your space: Rent out your space when you’re out of town and use the Airbnb business loan to paint, make repairs, clean, and maintain the space. Make sure you get the landlord’s permission first.
  • Use the loan to landscape: Add grass or pavers, build a sun deck, add a fire pit, or have a hot tub installed to give potential guests the amenities they’re looking for. Airbnbs that offer amenities typically rent more often and for higher prices than those without amenities.
  • Purchase a new property: If you’re looking to purchase a brand new Airbnb property, you’ll most likely have to look into alternative forms of financing, such as a second mortgage, a home equity loan, or a personal loan.

 

What To Consider Before Buying An Airbnb Property

Airbnb rentals have become globally popular, with tourists preferring them over hotels. Still, your success isn’t guaranteed. Here are a few things to consider before purchasing:

  • Reputation: Airbnb’s success relies heavily on host involvement with guests. Online reviews can make or break your Airbnb business.
  • Maintenance: Will you be able to handle the constant cleaning and maintenance of your property? If not, do you have the resources to hire a property manager?
  • Location: You might find a beautiful property, but if it’s not in the right location, you won’t have many bookings. Before purchasing an Airbnb property, do your homework. Check for amenities for tourists such as restaurants, entertainment, public transportation, and more.
  • Legality and taxes: Due to the popularity of Airbnb’s and pressure from the hotel industry, some cities have created burdensome regulations for short-term rental properties. Check with the municipality to learn about regulations, licensing, and tax requirements before investing in the property.
  • Airbnb rental income: Airbnb income can vary from month to month. According to research, the average Airbnb host earns around $924 a month. Keep in mind that you will more likely earn a larger income in peak seasons than during the off-season. You will need to make provisions for mortgage payments, maintenance fees, and other expenses during the off-seasons.
  • Airbnb occupancy: The number of nights your Airbnb is booked versus the number of days available will give you an occupancy rate. A good rate depends on the real estate market, the time of year, and your listing position in the Airbnb market. The occupancy rate helps determine how successful your Airbnb will be.
  • Capitalization rate: The CAP rate is a metric used to measure investment return on your rental property. You can calculate this rate by dividing your Airbnb's net operating income by the current market value.
  • FICO Score: This score will help lenders determine how likely you are to pay back a loan. A good FICO score is 670 and up. If your score is lower, don't let it deter you from investing in Airbnb since many lenders will still assist you even with a 500 credit score.

 

Conclusion

Airbnb’s are a popular vacation trend that doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. In order to capitalize on this growing market, you may need to obtain an Airbnb loan to help cover some of the associated costs. These loans can be used to help you remodel and furnish existing properties or to purchase real estate to use as Airbnb rentals. Keep your budget in mind, think about location, accessibility, and how easy it will be to manage the property. And then when you choose a lender, keep in mind their rates, terms, fees, and qualifications to make sure you’re getting the loan that best fits you and your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

Can Airbnb pay a mortgage?

Airbnb can definitely pay for your mortgage. The amount of rental income you receive from your Airbnb will depend on the area your property is located in, nearby attractions, on-site amenities, and how frequently the property is rented.

How do I get funding to start Airbnb?

You can obtain funding to start an Airbnb from money you have saved, from friends or family, or from a loan, which is the most popular option. You can get a loan from a bank or credit union, or use an online lender. You may choose a collateral loan such as a mortgage, a personal loan, or a business loan.

Does an Airbnb count as a small business?

Since you are actively managing the rental and offering a service in exchange for money, you are technically running a self-employed business. You can also set up an LLC, which is recommended to help keep your personal and business assets separate.

Can you get a business loan for an Airbnb?

Yes, there are many loans available to supplement your Airbnb, including lines of credit, merchant cash advances, and general small business loans.

Can you get an SBA loan for a rental property?

No, SBA loans are not an option for investment properties, including single-family homes, apartment complexes, and Airbnbs. SBA loans are strict about usage requirements, and the funds must be used for business expenses only.

Allison Bethell

Written by: Allison Bethell

Real Estate Expert

Allison Bethell is a content writer, real estate investor, small business owner, and consultant. She has a B.A. from Villanova University in Sociology and Business. She also holds several graduate certificates in early childhood development, screenwriting, and contract law.

More about me
Sarah Brooks

Reviewed by: Sarah Brooks

Personal Finance Writer and Editor

Sarah Brooks is a personal finance writer and editor with more than 10 years of experience. She specializes in personal and business loans, mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards.

More about me

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