Fast and Hassle-Free Funding Solutions
Find the Right Construction Financing for Your Business Needs
If you’re looking to break ground on new projects, upgrade equipment, or manage payroll, construction financing can provide the capital needed to keep your operations running smoothly. First Horizon Solutions offers flexible financing designed to meet your industry’s demands. We’re here to provide the financial support you need to expand your business with certainty.
Construction Equipment Financing
Need to purchase or lease essential machinery? First Horizon Solutions provides construction equipment financing to help you acquire the tools required to complete your projects efficiently.
Short-Term Construction Loans
Looking for quick funding with flexible repayment options? Our short-term construction loans provide a financial boost to keep your projects on schedule and your business moving forward.
Working Capital Solutions for Construction
Ensure consistent cash flow and effortlessly manage daily operational expenses with our specialized working capital loans for construction businesses. Manage payroll, materials, and operating costs with ease.
Getting Construction Financing
HOW IT WORKS
Submit Your Application
Start by requesting a loan amount, completing the application, and providing necessary documentation.
Credit Evaluation Process
Our team reviews your financial history, revenue streams, and business tenure to evaluate eligibility.
Loan Approval and Terms
Once approved, we determine the final loan amount, establish repayment terms, and outline the financing structure.
Final Terms and Funds
Once you agree to the terms, funds are deposited directly into your business account.
Variety of construction financing options
Industries and Sectors We Support
Funding for General Contractors
Loans for Heavy Equipment Companies
Financing for Residential Builders
Commercial Construction Loans
Infrastructure and Civil Engineering Loans
Renovation and Remodeling Financing
Loan Options Overview
Best Construction
Financing Options
Explore diverse funding solutions for construction businesses, including working capital loans, equipment financing, short-term loans, project financing, and flexible credit lines. Each option is designed to fit your company’s unique requirements.
- Construction Equipment Financing
- Short-Term Construction Loans
- Project-Based Financing
- Lines of Credit
- Working Capital Loans
- Vendor Financing
Funding Time
Varies by Lender
Best Fit
Construction and Contracting Businesses
Quick Process
Simple and Easy
Discover the Many Ways to Use Construction Financing

Cover Equipment Costs
Invest in machinery, tools, and vehicles crucial for project success.

Expand Your Business
Take on bigger contracts, grow your workforce, or open new locations.

Manage Daily Expenses
Ensure steady cash flow to cover payroll, materials, and subcontractors.

Stabilize Business Finances
Address financial challenges and keep your operations running smoothly.

Finance Your Next Construction Project
Access the capital needed to launch and finish construction projects efficiently.

Invest in Marketing and Growth
Attract more clients and grow your business with strategic marketing efforts.



Why Choose First Horizon Solutions?
At First Horizon Solutions, we make securing construction financing straightforward. We prioritize a seamless financing experience, offering personalized support tailored to your construction business’s unique needs.
A Funding Partner You Can Trust
Construction businesses rely on us for consistent, reliable financial solutions.
Quick & Simple Application Process
No-cost, no-obligation application with fast approvals and funding in as little as 24-48 hours.
Customized Financing Plans
Versatile loan solutions tailored to fit the specific demands of your construction projects.
Dedicated Financial Experts
Our knowledgeable financial experts provide hands-on assistance throughout every stage of the financing process.
Hassle-Free Lending
No collateral requirements and easy, automated payment options.
Flexible Payment Plans
Predictable terms and automatic payments make loan management stress-free..
Quick & Easy Process
How to Get Started Today
At First Horizon Solutions, we value your time. We’ve streamlined our application process to be fast and hassle-free. Here’s how it works:
Step 1
Online Application
Complete our quick online form to kickstart the process.
Step 2
Funding Specialist Review
Speak with a specialist to discuss your project’s financial needs and options.
Step 3
Approval and Funding
Once approved, receive funds in as little as 24-48 hours.
Explore Our Construction Financing Options
Find the right funding solution to fuel your next project. Each option is designed to maximize efficiency and financial flexibility.
Fast Track Approval
Key Benefits
- Quick approvals for established businesses with strong revenue
- Ideal for those with existing revenue and great credit
- Minimum paperwork required-streamlined application process
- Get the best funding options within days
- Ideal for repeat borrowers who understand the process
Tailored Funding Solutions
Key Benefits
- Expert guidance for first-time borrowers
- Explore multiple funding options suited to your needs
- Hands-on support for application and documentation
- Personalized strategies to boost approval chances
- Flexible financing for construction businesses of all sizes
How to Secure Construction Financing
Navigating construction financing can seem complex, but these six steps simplify the process.
Identify Project Needs
Understand the funding required to support equipment, labor, or expansion plans.
Review Loan Options
Assess loan types and repayment structures that align with your budget.
Understand Lenders
Lenders evaluate credit, industry experience, and financial stability when reviewing applications.
Speak with a Funding Expert
Connect with our financing specialists to explore the best funding options tailored to your construction business needs.
Submit Application
Our fast and hassle-free application process ensures you’re well-prepared for approval.
Select the Ideal Financing Solution
Find the loan option that aligns with your construction business’s growth strategy and financial objectives.
FAQ
Common Questions
on Construction Financing
What Minimum Credit Score Is Required?
Traditional lenders require high credit scores, but alternative lenders offer flexible financing for a range of credit profiles.
How Much Can I Borrow for Construction Financing?
First Horizon Solutions offers loans from $5,000 to $5,000,000 based on project size and business needs.
Are Construction Loans Installment or Revolving?
It depends on the loan type—term loans have fixed payments, while credit lines offer flexible access to funds.
Can I Get Construction Financing Online?
Yes, applying for a business loan online is easier than ever. While traditional lenders might stick to slower, outdated processes, alternative lenders like First Horizon Solutions allow you to apply conveniently from your laptop, smartphone, or tablet.
How Soon Can You Receive Your Loan Funds?
Banks and traditional lenders may take several weeks to review applications and release funds. First Horizon Solutions, however, accelerates the process with swift approvals and expedited funding, ensuring businesses get the capital they need without long delays. Unlike traditional lenders, First Horizon Solutions simplifies the process, delivering quicker approvals and rapid access to funds. If approved, you could receive your funds within 24 to 48 hours.
Everything You Need to Know About Construction Financing
What Is Construction Financing?
Construction financing refers to short or long-term loans specifically used to fund building projects, renovations, equipment purchases, or operational needs within the construction industry. Whether you’re a general contractor, developer, or trade specialist, these financing solutions help cover everything from materials and labor to heavy machinery. Whether you’re running an experienced large-scale construction business or getting into your first construction project, First Horizon Solutions has financing options that can help make sure your next project is a success.
Types of Construction Financing
Construction businesses face a range of financial challenges from covering upfront labor and material costs to navigating unpredictable project timelines. That’s why there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Below are the most effective and flexible construction financing options available through First Horizon Solutions, each tailored to meet different project demands and business realities.
Commercial Construction Loans
These are the backbone of funding for large-scale developments, full build-outs, or major renovations. Commercial construction loans are typically structured as draw loans, meaning funds are disbursed in stages as the project progresses, reducing interest costs since you only pay interest on what’s been drawn.
Use cases:
- Ground-up construction of commercial buildings
- Large tenant improvement projects
- Structural renovations and expansions
Benefits:
- Staged funding aligns with actual project spend
- Interest-only payments during construction phase
- Converts to permanent financing upon completion (in some cases)
Commercial construction loans are great for established contractors, developers, and construction firms managing multi-phase projects with a clear timeline and scope.
SBA Construction Loans
Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, these loans, particularly the SBA 504 and SBA 7(a), are powerful tools for long-term construction investments. While they require more documentation and time to process, they offer below-market interest rates and long repayment terms that can dramatically reduce the cost of capital.
Use cases:
- Purchasing land and constructing owner-occupied facilities
- Building warehouses, workshops, or equipment yards
- Financing buildouts for small business expansion
Benefits:
- Low down payment (as little as 10%)
- Fixed-rate options available
- Terms up to 25 years
- Partially government-guaranteed, reducing lender risk
SBA Construction Loans are typically available for small to mid-sized contractors looking to build or expand owner-used facilities while preserving capital.
Working Capital Loans
Construction projects rarely go exactly as planned. Working capital loans are short-term loans that keep operations running smoothly when cash flow is tight. Whether your project is facing delays, change orders, or slow-paying clients, working capital loans can help make sure your business operations stay on track.
Use cases:
- Covering payroll during project gaps
- Purchasing materials before client payment
- Managing surprise costs mid-project
Benefits:
- Fast approvals and funding
- Short repayment terms (often 6–24 months)
- Unsecured options available
Working Capital Loans are a great fit for construction firms of any size needing a quick injection of cash to bridge funding gaps or manage short-term obligations.
Business Lines of Credit
A business line of credit is a flexible, revolving account that acts like a financial safety net. You draw only what you need, when you need it. This is usually a great fit for managing fluctuating expenses across multiple active jobs.
Use cases:
- Mobilization costs at project start
- Covering materials, rentals, or labor spikes
- Multiple small projects with inconsistent timelines
Benefits:
- Interest only charged on the amount used
- Reusable credit that resets as you repay
- Easier to manage than traditional term loans
Business Lines of Credit are a great fit for contractors juggling multiple active sites, variable labor needs, or seasonal surges in demand.
Equipment Financing
Heavy machinery is expensive and buying outright can stall growth. Equipment financing allows you to divide the cost of critical machinery, vehicles, or technology into manageable payments while keeping your cash reserves available for daily operations. Because the equipment is used as collateral, lenders are often more willing to approve the loan with better terms.
Use cases:
- Excavators, loaders, and trucks
- Concrete mixers, cranes, and lifts
- Software, tablets, or surveying tools
Benefits:
- Little to no down payment
- Ownership at the end of the term (in most cases)
- Fast turnaround and often no need for additional collateral
Equipment Financing could be the right fit for construction businesses looking to upgrade or expand their fleet or tool inventory without draining cash flow.
Invoice Factoring
Waiting 30, 60, or even 90 days to get paid can bring your entire operation to a standstill. Invoice factoring turns unpaid invoices into immediate cash so you can get your team paid, keep your suppliers happy, and make sure your projects stay on track.
Use cases:
- Outstanding invoices from general contractors or developers
- Progress billing that takes time to process
- Long net terms or slow client payments
Benefits:
- Get cash in hand in as little as 24–48 hours
- No new debt added to your balance sheet
- Approval based on your clients’ credit, not just yours
Invoice Factoring might be the best fit for subcontractors, small firms, or trade specialists who deal with extended payment cycles and need liquidity to stay productive.
What Lenders Look For in a Construction Loan Application
Getting approved for construction financing is about proving your business is capable, stable, and built to deliver. Lenders evaluate a range of factors to determine your risk profile, your ability to repay, and whether the project itself makes financial sense.
Here’s what matters most in a construction loan application and what you can do to stand out:
Business and Personal Credit History
Credit is one of the first checkpoints lenders review. In construction, especially for smaller firms and owner-operators, your personal credit score often weighs as heavily as your business credit—particularly if your business is under two years old or operates as an LLC with a personal guarantee.
What lenders are looking for:
- A FICO score of 680+ is the sweet spot for lower rates and better terms
- A clean payment history, minimal delinquencies
- Business credit scores from Dun & Bradstreet or Experian Business
- Responsible use of existing lines of credit
How to strengthen this area:
- Pay off revolving debt and reduce utilization
- Dispute any errors on your credit reports
- Open a business credit file if you haven’t already
Pro tip: Even if your score is below ideal, showing consistent revenue and healthy operations can still get you approved with alternative lenders.
Project Scope and Budget
You’re asking a lender to bet on a complicated build out process so you need to show them exactly what you’re building, how much it’ll cost, and when you’ll finish. This documentation is a roadmap for your repayment timeline for any prospective lender.
Documents that matter:
- Detailed construction plans and blueprints
- Line-item budget estimates (labor, materials, permits, etc.)
- Project schedule with milestones and expected draw requests
- Feasibility studies or appraisals, especially for larger developments
- Contracts with subcontractors, suppliers, and clients
Keep in mind that lenders don’t want surprises. A realistic, professional scope signals you’ve done your homework, which typically reduces perceived risk. The tighter your numbers, the faster the approval.
Contractor Experience and Track Record
This is where your résumé counts. Lenders want to see that you’ve successfully managed similar projects in the past. Experience is about years in business, reputation, execution, and results.
Lenders evaluate:
- Years in operation (2+ years is preferred)
- Past project completions—especially those similar in size or scope
- Client testimonials or industry references
- Licensing, insurance, and certifications
To highlight your experience and track record of success, attach a portfolio of recent jobs with photos, budgets, and completion dates. It turns your loan application into a pitch—and gives underwriters something tangible to trust.
Cash Flow and Revenue Strength
A construction loan is really about finishing the project successfully. That means lenders want to see that your business has the financial muscle to weather delays, float payroll, and manage operations while waiting on milestone draws.
Key financials to provide:
- Year-to-date and previous 2 years profit & loss statements
- Balance sheets showing assets vs. liabilities
- Bank statements (usually last 3–6 months)
- Open contracts and accounts receivable
What lenders assess:
- Whether your business generates steady revenue
- If you’re dependent on just a few big clients
- Your ability to manage costs and maintain margins
Even in slow seasons, strong financial documentation builds confidence with lenders. It tells them you can handle the weight of the loan and keep the jobsite running.
Collateral and Down Payment
Construction loans are risky. Anyone that has worked in the industry knows that things can go wrong, costs can overrun, and timelines frequently change. To offset this, lenders typically require either a down payment or collateral (or both), depending on the size of the loan and the strength of your financials.
Common forms of collateral:
- The project property itself (if owned or to be acquired)
- Construction equipment or vehicles
- Business assets like inventory or invoices
- Personal assets (for smaller businesses with personal guarantees)
Down payment expectations:
- Typically ranges from 10% to 30%
- The more you put down, the better your rate and approval chances
Pro Tip: Lenders like to see that you’ve got skin in the game and have motivation to see the project through to a successful completion.
Why All of This Matters
Lenders are underwriting a loan and investing in your ability to manage risk, lead a crew, and finish the job strong. The more clearly and confidently you can present your case, the easier it becomes to get approved and negotiate favorable terms.
Need Help Preparing a Winning Application?
At First Horizon Solutions, we specialize in helping contractors and construction businesses secure funding that fits their workflow. Our team helps you tighten your documentation, find the right loan structure, and fast-track your application—so you can stay focused on building, not banking.
👉 Apply Now for Construction Financing
👉 Schedule a Free Consultation
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Key Documents Needed for Construction Financing
To get approved faster, prepare these documents:
- Business tax returns (2–3 years)
- Personal tax returns for owners
- Profit and loss statements
- Balance sheets
- Construction contracts or project bids
- Building permits or licenses
- AIA (American Institute of Architects) schedules, if available
- Business licenses and formation documents
- Bank statements (3–6 months)
Understanding Construction Loan Structures, Interest Rates & Fees
When it comes to construction financing, the headline numbers rarely tell the full story. Loan terms, interest structures, and hidden fees all play a major role in determining whether funding a project is affordable and advisable. Here’s a deep dive into the three most critical elements of any construction loan agreement: interest rates, term lengths, and total borrowing costs.
Fixed vs. Variable Interest Rates
Interest rate structure can dramatically impact your monthly payments, your budgeting, and your total project cost. Knowing how fixed and variable interest rates differ can help you choose the loan structure that best fits your long-term business goals.
Fixed Interest Rates: Consistency You Can Count On
With fixed rates, the interest percentage and monthly payment stay exactly the same throughout the life of the loan. This provides predictability, which is especially valuable on longer projects or when working within a tight budget.
Benefits of Fixed Rates:
- Easier to forecast monthly costs and manage cash flow
- Protection from market volatility or rising rates
- Simplified long-term budgeting and accounting
Ideal for:
- Multi-year commercial developments
- Contractors with consistent revenue streams
- Businesses operating on defined project margins
FHS Insight: Fixed-rate loans are often the safer option when inflation is on the rise or interest rates are trending upward.
Variable Interest Rates: Flexibility with Risk
Variable (or adjustable) interest rates can float with broader market benchmarks, like the prime rate or LIBOR. They usually start lower than fixed rates, which can reduce upfront costs, but can rise unexpectedly over time.
Pros of Variable Rates:
- Lower starting rate = lower initial payments
- Potential savings if market rates stay low
- Flexible for short-term or bridge financing
Cons to consider:
- Payments can increase suddenly
- Harder to plan long-term financial commitments
- Riskier in unpredictable economic environments
Best suited for:
- Short-term builds with quick turnarounds
- Contractors who plan to refinance or pay off early
- Businesses comfortable managing rate shifts
Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between fixed and variable rates depends on your risk tolerance, project timeline, and ability to absorb potential cost fluctuations.
Ask yourself:
- Can your business handle a jump in payments mid-project?
- Are interest rates expected to rise during your loan term?
- Do you need the stability of predictable payments to maintain margin?
The safest bet for most construction projects is fixed—especially if you’re managing multiple jobs, have tight overhead, or expect financing to span more than 12 months.
Construction Loan Terms: What You’re Really Signing Up For
The length of your loan affects everything from monthly payments and total interest to your working capital flexibility. Construction loans are not a one-size-fits-all tool, so it’s critical to choose a term that reflects your build timeline and repayment strategy.
Short-Term Construction Loans (6–24 Months)
These are typically used for renovations, tenant improvements, or small ground-up projects. The focus is speed: get in, get built, get out.
Key features:
- Higher monthly payments
- Lower total interest
- Quick turnaround for resale or refi
Advantages:
- You build equity faster
- Less time paying interest
- Suitable for “fix-and-flip” projects or fast-paced builds
Risks:
- Tighter repayment timeline
- Less breathing room if project delays occur
- May not be ideal for large crews or phased developments
Long-Term Construction Loans (5–10+ Years)
These are used for large-scale developments or permanent facility builds that need extended repayment structures.
Key features:
- Lower monthly payments
- More total interest paid over time
- Often convertible to permanent mortgages
Advantages:
- Easier on monthly cash flow
- Ideal for properties generating rental or business income
- May be paired with SBA or equipment loans
Trade-offs:
- You’ll pay more in interest over time
- Less flexibility to exit early without prepayment penalties
- Not ideal for businesses planning to scale rapidly or sell
Pro Tip from FHS: Choose your term based on project cash flow and operational needs, instead of just total loan size. A smaller project with tight margins might still benefit from longer terms if it eases day-to-day financial strain.
Construction Loan Fees: What You’re Really Paying For
Beyond rates and terms, fees are the hidden force that shape your total borrowing cost. If you’re not accounting for them up front, they’ll show up in your balance sheet later and they can pile up fast.
Here’s what to look out for (and how to plan for them):
Origination Fees
These are upfront costs to process your loan and are typically 1% to 5% of the total loan amount. It covers underwriting, documentation, and closing prep.
Plan for it: Always ask what’s included in your origination fee. Some lenders wrap in other costs to inflate this figure.
Draw Fees
Since construction loans are paid out in stages, a draw fee may be charged each time you request a new disbursement. This helps the lender cover administrative costs of approving and sending funds.
Typical cost: $100–$500 per draw
How to reduce it: Minimize the number of draws by planning your construction schedule in clear, well-spaced phases.
Inspection Fees
Before releasing funds, lenders often require site inspections to verify progress. These are conducted by a third party and the full cost is generally paid by the borrower.
When to expect them: Every time you request a draw
Pro tip: Some lenders bake these into their overall fees. Always ask for a complete fee breakdown and review it carefully before signing any financing agreement.
Late Payment Fees
Miss a payment, and you’ll likely incur a late fee. It can also hurt your business credit and make future borrowing more expensive.
Avoid it: Set up auto-pay or work with lenders (like FHS) who offer payment reminders and flexible due date options.
Other Fees to Watch For:
- Prepayment Penalties: If you plan to pay off your loan early, check if there’s a fee
- Admin/Servicing Fees: Recurring costs for maintaining your loan
- Legal Fees: Especially for larger commercial projects that involve escrow or title documentation
Final Thought: Know Before You Build
Construction financing is about securing the capital required to make the project a reality and building a financial foundation that supports your success long after the last nail is driven. Finding the best loan structure, interest rate, and term can make or break the long-term success for construction businesses.
When you partner with First Horizon Solutions, you’re not just getting funding—you’re getting a strategic team that helps you choose smarter, structure better, and build faster.
Smart Alternatives to Traditional Construction Loans
Not every contractor fits the mold and not every project can (or should) be financed through a traditional construction loan. Whether you’re a newer business without years of financials, or you’re managing cash flow across several jobs, there are practical and flexible alternatives that may be faster, easier, and better aligned with how you operate.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the most effective non-traditional construction financing options available today:
Vendor Financing: Pay Later, Build Now
Many large suppliers, manufacturers, and alternative lenders offer vendor financing, giving qualified contractors the ability to order materials now and defer payment until a later date.
How it works: You purchase materials, equipment, or supplies from an approved vendor, who agrees to extend payment terms—usually net-30, net-60, or even longer depending on volume and relationship.
Why it helps:
- Conserves working capital for labor and operations
- Allows you to kick off projects before client payments come in
- Builds strong supplier relationships and negotiating power
When it works best:
- For high-volume contractors with repeat purchase history
- When cash is tied up in other active projects
- During seasonal slowdowns when cash flow is unpredictable
Pro tip from FHS: Use vendor financing strategically. If overused, it can create a bottleneck if client payments are delayed. Treat it as a bridge, not a crutch.
Crowdfunding: Turn Public Interest Into Capital
If your construction project serves a community purpose, brings innovation to the industry, or solves a meaningful problem, crowdfunding can be a powerful tool to raise capital without giving up equity or taking on debt.
Popular platforms:
- Kickstarter (best for innovative tools, green tech, or construction-related products)
- GoFundMe (ideal for community-driven builds or disaster recovery)
- Fundable (a hybrid platform supporting both donations and investor-driven capital)
How it works: You pitch your project, offer incentives (if applicable), and promote it through your network. Contributions can come in as donations, pre-orders, or investments—depending on the platform.
What it’s good for:
- Community centers, schools, nonprofit builds
- Veteran-owned or minority-owned business expansion
- Green energy projects or modular construction innovation
What to watch out for: Crowdfunding typically requires marketing, storytelling, and active outreach. It’s certainly not “free money,” but it can be the boost your brand or mission needs for those projects that do not qualify for construction financing.
Revenue-Based Financing: Repay as You Earn
Revenue-based financing (RBF) offers flexible repayment tied directly to your business income. Instead of fixed monthly payments, you repay a percentage of your revenue.
How it works: Lenders or platforms advance your company funds based on your average monthly revenue. You then repay a portion (often 5–15%) of your sales until the total agreed-upon amount is repaid (usually 1.2x–1.5x the original advance).
Why it’s smart for contractors:
- Adapts to seasonal or uneven cash flow
- No fixed monthly burden
- Approval based more on revenue than credit score
Best for:
- Businesses with high revenue but low credit
- Firms with several open jobs and pending invoices
- Contractors dealing with delayed draws or milestone payments
Consider this: You will likely end up paying more for revenue-based financing. But if you need fast cash without strict credit or collateral requirements, it’s a flexible and cash-flow-friendly option.
Other Alternative Construction Financing Strategies to Consider
Merchant Cash Advances (MCAs)
Similar to RBF, but typically tied to credit card sales. Less relevant for B2B contractors but may work for smaller residential builders or material suppliers with point-of-sale activity.
Joint Venture Financing
Partner with an investor or developer on a project-by-project basis, where they fund the build in exchange for a profit share. Useful for high-risk, high-reward projects with strong ROI potential.
The Bottom Line: Flexibility Is the New Funding
Not every project needs a traditional loan—and not every contractor fits the bank’s checklist. The modern construction industry moves fast, and capital needs to keep pace. Whether you’re funding a one-off job or scaling your business, these alternative financing options can keep you moving without drowning in red tape.
Tips to Improve Your Approval Odds for Construction Financing
Construction financing isn’t just about having a good project—it’s about presenting your business as a low-risk, high-competence operation that lenders can trust. Whether you’re applying for a short-term working capital loan, a commercial construction line, or a long-term SBA-backed facility build, improving your financial profile and overall application can make a huge difference in the terms you receive—or whether you’re approved at all.
Here’s a breakdown of smart, proven ways to position your business for success:
1. Boost Your Credit Score (Both Business and Personal)
Creditworthiness is still one of the top decision-making factors for any lender. Most financing partners will assess both your personal FICO score and your business credit score—especially if you’re a small business, sole proprietor, or under two years old.
How to improve before applying:
- Pay down high credit card balances and reduce credit utilization
- Resolve any outstanding delinquencies or collections
- Settle disputes and correct errors on your credit reports
- Avoid opening or closing accounts too close to the application date
- Establish and grow a business credit profile (Dun & Bradstreet, Experian Business)
Ideal credit range:
- 680+ personal score opens up better rates and faster approvals
- Paydex score of 75+ (D&B) reflects timely business payments
FHS Tip: Don’t panic if your score is below 680—strong cash flow, solid project documentation, and a good business story can often outweigh a less-than-perfect credit file, especially with alternative lenders.
2. Reduce Existing Debt to Improve Financial Ratios
Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio and debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) are key metrics lenders analyze. If you’re already overleveraged, lenders will worry about your ability to manage additional loan payments—especially on high-cost, phased construction projects.
How to clean up your financial picture:
- Pay off or consolidate high-interest debt
- Refinance existing loans into longer terms or lower payments
- Delay taking on new liabilities until after your construction loan closes
- Shift short-term debt into long-term positions to improve liquidity metrics
Ideal benchmarks:
- DSCR of at least 1.25x is usually required for approval
- DTI under 40% is viewed favorably by most lenders
3. Present a Detailed, Professional Project Plan
Lenders don’t just fund businesses—they fund projects. And vague plans or fuzzy numbers are red flags. A complete, clear, and well-documented project plan shows lenders you’re serious, organized, and ready to execute.
Your project plan should include:
- Scope of work and timeline (broken down by phases)
- Line-item cost breakdown (materials, labor, permits, inspections)
- Architectural plans, renderings, or blueprints
- Budget vs. expected revenue (for rental or income-producing properties)
- Contingency plans and projected draw schedule
A detailed project plan shows that you understand not just how to build, but how to budget, manage, and complete projects within scope.
4. Highlight Past Successful Projects and References
A proven track record goes a long way. Lenders are far more likely to approve financing for applicants who’ve completed similar jobs in the past, especially when they have done so profitably, on time, and with satisfied clients.
What to include:
- A portfolio of completed projects (with visuals, budgets, and timelines)
- Testimonials from clients, general contractors, or developers
- Relevant licenses, certifications, or union affiliations
- Awards, media mentions, or safety recognitions
Even better: Include third-party validation like Better Business Bureau ratings, online reviews, or repeat client history. It all helps tell a credible, trustworthy story.
5. Keep Your Personal and Business Finances Transparent and Organized
No lender wants to dig through a mess of half-complete statements, inconsistent figures, or handwritten spreadsheets. Clean, accurate, and up-to-date financials help speed up approvals, reduce red flags, and earn you better terms.
What you’ll need ready:
- Business tax returns (last 2–3 years)
- Personal tax returns (for all owners with 20%+ stake)
- Year-to-date profit & loss statement
- Balance sheet showing assets and liabilities
- Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
- Schedule of existing debts and payments
- Entity documentation (LLC articles, operating agreement, EIN)
Use cloud accounting tools like:
- QuickBooks, Xero, or Wave
- Project management systems that integrate with financials
FHS Note: Even if you’re a small shop, present your finances like an experienced and professional operation with detailed accounting. Make it easy for any lender to see that you have organized and professional accounting for your business.
Bonus Tips That Can Give You the Edge:
- Get Prequalified Before You Need Funding: Knowing what you can qualify for before bidding on a big project gives you negotiating power and helps avoid timeline delays.
- Build Relationships With Lenders Early: The earlier you start a conversation, the more flexible lenders can be. Relationship-based funding is still one of the most powerful tools in this industry.
- Work With a Funding Partner That Knows Construction: At First Horizon Solutions, we understand the construction business. From milestone-based disbursements to revenue cycles and seasonal slowdowns, we help clients prepare stronger applications and avoid roadblocks before they happen.
Choosing the Right Construction Financing for Your Business
Choosing the right construction financing starts with detailing your plans and needs. Every project has its own blueprint, and your funding should follow suit. Whether you’re scaling up crews, investing in equipment, bridging slow payments, or taking on your biggest build yet, your financial approach needs to match your operational reality. From traditional construction loans to alternative options like equipment financing, lines of credit, and revenue-based funding, the smartest move is working with business funding experts to find the best option for your construction needs.
That’s where First Horizon Solutions comes in. We fund projects and fuel growth for contractors, developers, and builders who need a partner that gets how construction really works. Our team helps you cut through red tape, fast-track approvals, and structure funding that fits your cash flow. If you’re ready to work with people who speak your language and back it up with real-world lending expertise, it’s time to build smarter with First Horizon Solutions.
Call our team today at 602-888-3538 or schedule a meeting with one of our business funding experts to explore the best construction financing options.
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