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Best Personal Loans For Tiny Home Financing

Back to libraryRebecca Safier, Jordan TarverJul 11, 2026
Best Personal Loans For Tiny Home Financing

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Advertisers do not and cannot influence our ratings. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the personal loans methodology for the ratings below.

  • 29 tiny home lenders researched
  • 20+ years of editorial experience
  • Unbiased editorial team
  • No AI writing

Compare the Best Personal Loans for Tiny Home Financing

COMPANYFORBES ADVISOR RATINGMINIMUM CREDIT SCOREAPR RANGELEARN MORE
4.0
Does not disclose
6.99% to 35.49%* with all discounts
Via Credible.com's Website
4.0
700
7.24% to 24.89%
Via Credible.com's Website
4.0
Marcus does not disclose this information
6.74% to 24.74%
Read Our Full Review
4.0
600
7.99% to 35.99%
Via Credible.com’s Website
3.5
580
7.74% to 35.99%
Via Credible.com's Website
3.5
560
11.69% to 35.99%
Via Credible.com's Website
3.5
660
7.99% to 24.99%
Via MoneyLion’s Website
3.5
620
6.60% to 35.99%
Via Credible.com's Website
3.5
580
9.95% to 35.99%
Via Credible.com's Website

Best Lenders for Tiny Home Financing: A Closer Look

BEST OVERALL PERSONAL LOANS FOR TINY HOME FINANCING

SoFi®

4.0

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Loan amounts

$5,000 to $100,000

APR range

6.99% to 35.49%*

with all discounts

Minimum Credit Score

Does not disclose

Check SoFi Rates Arrow

Via Credible.com’s Website

$5,000 to $100,000

6.99% to 35.49%*

with all discounts

Does not disclose

Our Expert Review

SoFi is an online lending platform that offers unsecured fixed-rate personal loans in every state. Founded in 2011, SoFi has extended over $50 billion in loans and stands out for allowing high loan amounts and its availability of extended loan terms.

Loans are available from $5,000 to $100,000, making SoFi a great option for those with excellent credit who need to borrow a large amount of money. Loan amounts available may vary by the state you live in. Repayment terms range from two to seven years, making SoFi an incredibly flexible option for those with sufficient credit (minimum does not disclose) and annual income (at least $45,000). SoFi also lets prospective borrowers submit joint applications—although co-signers are not permitted.

Approved borrowers are rewarded with comparatively low APRs. What’s more, SoFi doesn’t charge origination fees, late fees or prepayment penalties—a stand-out feature because personal loan lenders often charge origination or late payment fees at a minimum. The platform also offers customers several other perks and discounts.

Consumer Sentiment Index
4.2
Consumer Sentiment Index
3,184
Insights Analyzed
  • #
    Interest Rates and Fees
    57%
    14%
    29%
  • #
    Customer Service
    26%
    11%
    63%
  • #
    Loan Terms and Flexibility
    56%
    23%
    21%
  • #
    Ease of Approval and Process
    64%
    10%
    26%

While some borrowers appreciate SoFi’s simple application and disbursement process, others are dissatisfied with communication and customer service. Borrowers are also frustrated with misleading promotional offers and how their loan inquiries were handled.

Pros & Cons
  • Offers comprehensive member benefits and perks
  • Does not charge origination, late payment or prepayment fees
  • Offers direct payment to creditors
  • Loan amounts of up to $100,000
  • Higher minimum loan amount ($5,000)
  • Longer average funding time (4 days)
  • High maximum loan APR ( 35.49%*)
  • Live chat is limited to business hours

Lender Details

Eligibility  

  • Minimum credit score: Does not disclose
  • Co-signers/co-borrowers: Co-borrowers accepted

Funding Speed 

Funds should generally be available within a few days after signing the loan agreement.

Disclosures

*Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. To qualify, a borrower must be a U.S. citizen or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., and meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements. Not all borrowers receive the lowest rate. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. If approved, your actual rate will be within the range of rates at the time of application and will depend on a variety of factors, including term of loan, evaluation of your creditworthiness, income, and other factors. If SoFi is unable to offer you a loan but matches you for a loan with a participating bank, then your rate may be outside the range of rates listed above. Rates and Terms are subject to change at any time without notice. SoFi Personal Loans can be used for any lawful personal, family, or household purposes and may not be used for post-secondary education expenses. Minimum loan amount is $5,000. The average of SoFi Personal Loans funded in 2024 was around $33K. Information current as of 06/03/26. SoFi Personal Loans originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). See SoFi.com/legal for state-specific license details. See SoFi.com/eligibility for details and state restrictions.

*Fixed rates from 6.99% APR to 35.49% APR. APR reflect the 0.25% autopay interest rate discount and a 0.25% SoFi Plus interest rate discount. SoFi Platform personal loans are made either by SoFi Bank, N.A. or , Cross River Bank, a New Jersey State Chartered Commercial Bank, operating from its Delaware branch, Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender. SoFi may receive compensation if you take out a loan originated by Cross River Bank. These rate ranges are current as of 06/03/26 and are subject to change without notice. Not all rates and amounts available in all states. See SoFi Personal Loan eligibility details at https://www.sofi.com/eligibilitycriteria/#eligibility-personal. Not all applicants qualify for the lowest rate. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Your actual rate will be within the range of rates listed above and will depend on a variety of factors, including evaluation of your credit worthiness, income, and other factors.
Loan amounts range from $5,000– $100,000. The APR is the cost of credit as a yearly rate and reflects both your interest rate and an origination fee of 9.99% of your loan amount for Cross River Bank originated loans which will be deducted from any loan proceeds you receive and for SoFi Bank originated loans have an origination fee of 0%-7%, will be deducted from any loan proceeds you receive.

Autopay: The SoFi 0.25% autopay interest rate reduction requires you to agree to make monthly principal and interest payments by an automatic monthly deduction from a savings or checking account. The benefit will discontinue and be lost for periods in which you do not pay by automatic deduction from a savings or checking account. Autopay is not required to receive a loan from SoFi.

Member Rate Discount: To be eligible for an additional 0.25% interest rate reduction on a Personal Loan, you must, within 31 days of loan funding, either (1) meet SoFi Plus eligibility criteria, (2) receive an Eligible Direct Deposit into a SoFi Checking or Savings account, or (3) receive at least $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits into a SoFi Checking or Savings account. You must continue to meet at least one of the above eligibility criteria every 31 days to maintain the discount. See the SoFi Plus terms for details on SoFi Plus subscription. For more details on Eligible Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits, please see https://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet.

Once you become eligible during the initial period, the discount will be removed or reinstated depending on whether the criteria have been met. Each time your loan is re-amortized, your monthly payment amount will change based upon the interest rate that was in place. SoFi reserves the right to modify or terminate this offer at any time for unenrolled participants. You are not required to meet these criteria to be approved for a loan.

BEST FOR TERMS UP TO 72 MONTHS

Marcus

4.0

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Minimum Credit Score

Marcus does not disclose this information

APR range

6.74% to 24.74%

with autopay

Loan amounts

$3,500 to $40,000

Learn More Arrow

Read Our Review

Marcus does not disclose this information

6.74% to 24.74%

with autopay

$3,500 to $40,000

Our Expert Review

Marcus by Goldman Sachs is a subsidiary of the investment bank Goldman Sachs and offers personal loans from $3,500 to $40,000. While Marcus may not be the ideal choice for those who need access to a large loan amount, the platform still offers rather flexible loans that are available for three- to six-year terms.

Borrowers can access APRs from 6.74% to 24.74% with a 0.25% discount for autopay enrollees. And, like some other top lenders, Marcus doesn’t charge any fees, including for sign-up, late payment and prepayment. Plus, borrowers can benefit from the platform’s on-time payment reward and flexible payment dates.

As with many other top lenders, Marcus lets applicants prequalify with a soft credit pull, so it’s easy to see your loan options without hurting your credit. While Marcus customers don’t have access to a mobile app for managing their loans, the lender makes up for the lost convenience with robust customer support options. Borrowers can contact customer support seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time and have access to extensive online resources.

Pros & Cons
  • No origination, late payment, insufficient fund or prepayment fees
  • Offers direct consolidation payments to third-party lenders
  • Borrowers can change their payment date up to three times over the life over the loan
  • Does not allow co-signers or co-applicants
  • Cannot be used to refinance an existing student loan
  • Funding can take up to four days after loan approval

Details

Eligibility:  Marcus does not disclose the minimum required credit score.  Those with higher scores are eligible for lower rates and more favorable terms. And, while Marcus doesn’t disclose an income requirement, the platform does require applicants to have an income sufficient to cover loan repayment. In contrast to some personal loan providers, Marcus does not permit co-signers or co-applicants.

Loan uses:  Marcus’ personal loans can be used for debt consolidation, home improvement, moving and relocation, special events, travel and vacations and more. Borrowers cannot use Marcus personal loans to refinance existing student loans, but the platform supports other forms of debt consolidation with a consolidation calculator and direct payment to third-party lenders.

Turnaround time:  An applicant’s loan may be approved in under 24 hours—quicker than some lenders, but not the fastest approval process we encountered. Once a loan is approved, funds take between one and four days after bank account verification to land in the borrower’s account. However, funding time varies depending on the financial institution and when the loan was processed.

BEST FOR FAST FUNDING & BELOW-AVERAGE CREDIT

LendingPoint

4.0

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Minimum Credit Score

600

APR range

7.99% to 35.99%

with autopay

Loan amounts

$1,000 to $36,500

Compare Rates Arrow

Via Credible.com’s Website

600

7.99% to 35.99%

with autopay

$1,000 to $36,500

Our Expert Review

LendingPoint is an online lender that offers personal loans to prospective borrowers in 48 states and Washington D.C.; it doesn’t offer loans in Nevada and West Virginia.

Why We Like It
LendingPoint offers longer loan terms than many other lenders—24 to 60 months—or two to five years—providing borrowers with more flexibility in their repayment plans.

What We Don’t Like
High maximum APRs and origination fees up to 10% may make LendingPoint more costly for less-qualified borrowers.

Who It’s Best For
LendingPoint is best for borrowers who want a longer repayment period.

Consumer Sentiment Index
6.0
Consumer Sentiment Index
10,607
Insights Analyzed
  • #
    Interest Rates and Fees
    64%
    13%
    23%
  • #
    Customer Service
    68%
    2%
    30%
  • #
    Loan Terms and Flexibility
    84%
    7%
    9%
  • #
    Ease of Approval and Process
    95%
    2%
    3%

Borrowers appreciate the easy application process and robust customer service but criticize the high interest rates and misleading prequalification process. Some borrowers are concerned about LendingPoint’s perceived predatory practices and poor handling of loans post-approval.

Pros & Cons
  • Funding as soon as the next business day
  • Low credit score requirement
  • No prepayment penalty
  • Origination fee up to 10%
  • Co-signers or joint loans not permitted
  • Not available in Nevada or West Virginia

Details

Eligibility: 

  • Minimum credit score. 600
  • Minimum annual income. $35,000
  • Co-signers. Not permitted

Customer service

After testing and evaluating LendingPoint’s customer service, we found it to be one of the most helpful and transparent lenders on our list after waiting only 46 seconds to be connected to a representative. The customer service representative we spoke with shared an in-depth perspective of their loan offers, including information about loan amounts, eligibility requirements, how interest rates are determined and prequalification.

LendingPoint’s team also disclosed late fees but didn’t confirm origination fees. While customer service didn’t share this information wasn’t, the lender discloses a fee of up to 10% on its website. LendingPoint was also one of few lenders that shared how they report payments to credit bureaus, which it typically does at the start of the month.

BEST FOR BAD CREDIT

Upgrade

3.5

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Loan amounts

$1,000 to $75,000

APR range

7.74% to 35.99%

Minimum Credit Score

580

Compare Rates Arrow

Via Credible.com’s Website

$1,000 to $75,000

7.74% to 35.99%

580

Our Expert Review

Upgrade offers accessible online credit and banking services, including personal loans of $1,000 to $75,000.

Why We Like It
Upgrade allows borrowers to apply with co-signers and sets a low minimum credit requirement of 580, increasing the chances of approval.

What We Don’t Like
Upgrade’s loans only go up to $75,000. The lender also charges origination fees between 1.85% and 9.99% of the loan amount, which can decrease the total borrowed amount.

Who It’s Best For
Upgrade’s personal loans are best for borrowers with poor credit histories who may not qualify for a personal loan without a co-signer.

Consumer Sentiment Index
5.4
Consumer Sentiment Index
5,884
Insights Analyzed
  • #
    Interest Rates and Fees
    54%
    10%
    36%
  • #
    Customer Service
    67%
    3%
    30%
  • #
    Loan Terms and Flexibility
    74%
    10%
    16%
  • #
    Ease of Approval and Process
    94%
    2%
    4%

Upgrade customers report mixed experiences with its personal loan offerings. Some wins that jump out include the streamlined application process, easy approval and quick funding. But their experiences were not perfect. Some users are dissatisfied with the high APRs and loan fees that make working with Upstart costly.

Pros & Cons
  • Direct payment to creditors streamlines the consolidation process
  • 24/7 live chat customer support available
  • Offers both co-signer and co-borrower options
  • Charges origination fees on consolidation loans
  • High maximum loan APR ( 35.99%)
  • Average 3-day funding timeline

Lender Details

Eligibility

  • Minimum credit score: 580
  • Co-signers/co-borrowers: Accepted

Funding Speed

Funding may occur within one business day of clearing verification.

BEST FOR COMPARING MULTIPLE OFFERS

Universal Credit

3.5

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Minimum Credit Score

560

APR range

11.69% to 35.99%

Loan amounts

$1,000 to $50,000

Compare Rates Arrow

Compare rates from participating lenders via Forbes Advisor

560

11.69% to 35.99%

$1,000 to $50,000

Our Expert Review

Universal Credit is an online lending platform that offers personal loans between $1,000 to $50,000 through its partners. Repayment terms range from three to seven years.

While Universal Credit makes finding a personal loan accessible even to those with damaged credit, it comes with a few tradeoffs. First, it charges high APRs, well above the most competitive rates seen on our list. Second, Universal Credit charges a 5.25% to 9.99% origination fee on all personal loans. Because this is deducted from your loan proceeds, you’ll need to factor this in when determining your loan amount to ensure you receive the necessary amount after the fact.

Pros & Cons
  • Flexible qualification requirements
  • Funding within one business day
  • No prepayment penalty
  • APRs are higher than those offered by top competitors
  • Origination fees from 5.25% to 9.99%
  • Lowest APR requires choosing direct payment of creditors

Details

Eligibility:

  • Minimum credit score. 560
  • Minimum income. Does not disclose
  • Co-signers. Not permitted
  • Co-borrowers. Not permitted

BEST FOR NO INTEREST IF REPAID WITHIN 30 DAYS

Discover

3.5

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Minimum Credit Score

660

APR range

7.99% to 24.99%

Loan amounts

$2,500 to $40,000

Compare Rates Arrow

Via MoneyLion’s Website

660

7.99% to 24.99%

$2,500 to $40,000

Our Expert Review

Discover is an online bank that also offers customers credit cards, retirement solutions and personal loans in all 50 states. As a lending platform, Discover stands out because of its online application and mobile banking tools, well-reviewed customer support team and quick funding.

In general, loans are available from $2,500 to $40,000 and may be issued for between three and seven years. So, while borrowers may get a larger loan from another lender, the repayment terms are fairly flexible. Discover charges a late payment fee and does not offer an autopay discount; however, it does not charge any origination fees or prepayment penalties, making it competitive with other top personal loan providers.

Pros & Cons
  • No fees
  • Same-day lending decisions available
  • Funding as soon as the next business day after approval
  • Co-borrowers are not permitted
  • Must demonstrate household annual income of at least $25,000
  • Lower borrowing limit than some lenders

Details

Eligibility: 

  • Minimum credit score required. 660
  • Minimum annual income. $25,000
  • Co-borrowers. Not permitted
  • Co-signers. Not permitted

Expert’s Take

It’s no surprise that Discover personal loans are popular. Discover was the original rewards credit card with a large, diverse customer base. It utilizes its app and website to make the application process easy (especially for existing customers). In some cases, the funds are available the next day. Discover doesn’t have an application fee and is flexible with repayment options. The entire process is consistent with the brand and experience Discover’s customers are familiar with.

— Herman Thompson, Jr., advisory board member

BEST FOR LOANS AS LOW AS $1,000

Upstart

3.5

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Loan amounts

$1,000 to $75,000

APR range

6.60% to 35.99%

Minimum Credit Score

620

Compare Rates Arrow

Via Credible.com’s Website

$1,000 to $75,000

6.60% to 35.99%

620

Our Expert Review

Upstart uses artificial intelligence (AI) to evaluate applications, allowing the lender to consider factors such as employment and education when determining eligibility.

Why We Like It
Upstart’s minimal credit score requirements allow more borrowers to qualify for loans. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau estimated Upstart has approved 27% more borrowers than possible under a traditional lending model.

What We Don’t Like
Upstart’s three- or five-years loan terms are more limited than other lenders. However, this is likely an acceptable tradeoff for applicants who might not be approved in a traditional lending environment.

Who It’s Best For
Upstart is best for individuals with limited credit history who want a more inclusive approach to the lending process.

Consumer Sentiment Index
3.4
Consumer Sentiment Index
2,077
Insights Analyzed
  • #
    Interest Rates and Fees
    28%
    14%
    58%
  • #
    Customer Service
    10%
    3%
    87%
  • #
    Loan Terms and Flexibility
    56%
    16%
    28%
  • #
    Ease of Approval and Process
    66%
    8%
    26%

Upstart borrowers express frustration with high interest rates and origination fees that increase the cost of borrowing. While borrowers found Upstart’s borrowing process simple and quick, others reported issues with customer service, communication and lending practices.

Pros & Cons
  • Low minimum APR of 6.60%
  • Low credit score and income requirements
  • Offers instant approval decisions
  • Maximum and minimum amounts vary by state
  • Limited repayment options
  • Doesn’t offer co-signer or co-borrower options

BEST FOR A RANGE OF REPAYMENT TERMS

Avant

3.5

Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Loan amounts

$1,000 to $40,000

APR range

9.95% to 35.99%

Minimum Credit Score

580

Compare Rates Arrow

Via Credible.com’s Website

$1,000 to $40,000

9.95% to 35.99%

580

Our Expert Review

Avant is a lender that offers secured and unsecured personal loans through a third-party bank. The lender offers loans in Washington, D.C. and every state but Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, New York, Vermont and West Virginia.

Why We Like It
Avant may deposit loan funds as soon as the next business day after approval, making it a great option for borrowers who need money fast.

What We Don’t Like
Avant’s APRs range from 9.95% to 35.99%. It also charges an administrative fee of up to 4.75% of the loan amount, which further increases the cost of borrowing.

Who It’s Best For
Avant is best for individuals with damaged or limited credit who need quick funding.

Consumer Sentiment Index
4.6
Consumer Sentiment Index
7,304
Insights Analyzed
  • #
    Interest Rates and Fees
    18%
    11%
    71%
  • #
    Customer Service
    23%
    1%
    76%
  • #
    Loan Terms and Flexibility
    67%
    12%
    21%
  • #
    Ease of Approval and Process
    87%
    2%
    11%

While some borrowers praise Avant’s user-friendly app and fast approval process, others comment negatively about customer service quality, unexplained fees and high interest rates. However, many borrowers appreciate quick loan decisions and funding turnaround times.

Pros & Cons
  • Low minimum credit requirement of 580
  • Funding  as soon as the next business day
  • Seven-day customer support available
  • High minimum APR of  9.95%
  • Administration fee up to 9.99%
  • Doesn’t pay creditors directly

Most Popular is calculated from the number of times each affiliate product was selected by Forbes Advisor users over a six month time period.

Tips to Compare Personal Loans for Tiny Home Financing

A personal loan can help you purchase a tiny home, as well as cover the costs of any repairs or renovations that come with it. Here are some personal loan features to pay attention to when comparing your options:

  • Interest rate. When you borrow a personal loan, you’ll have to pay back the sum you borrow plus interest. A lower interest rate means less interest paid over time.
  • Fees. Keep an eye out for any fees that could add to your costs of borrowing, such as an origination fee, application fee or prepayment penalties.
  • Annual percentage rate (APR). APR is a more inclusive measure of a loan’s costs than interest rate alone, since it includes both interest and fees. When comparing two loans, the one with the lower APR will have lower borrowing costs over time, assuming the repayment terms are the same.
  • Repayment term. Find out how long you have to pay back the loan to make sure the monthly payments fit your budget. Personal loans typically come with terms of one to seven years.
  • Time to fund. Some lenders can approve a personal loan in as little as one business day while others take longer. Make sure the loan timeline fits your tiny home buying plans.
  • Collateral requirement. Most personal loans are unsecured, meaning they don’t require collateral. If you don’t have strong credit, though, a secured loan might be easier to qualify for. However, if you default on a secured loan, your lender can repossess your collateral to recoup its losses.

What Is Tiny Home Financing?

If you don’t have enough cash on hand to purchase your tiny home, you can look into financing. Tiny home financing refers to any method of borrowing money and paying it back over time. Personal loans are a common type of tiny home financing, but you could also explore builder financing, RV loans or a home equity loan if you already own a primary residence.

Unlike traditional homes, tiny homes typically don’t qualify for conventional mortgages. For one, mortgages rarely come in an amount lower than $60,000. Second, most mortgage lenders require that your home has a foundation, which tiny homes usually don’t. Finally, some mortgage lenders require your home to be a minimum size—your tiny home’s square footage might not make the cut.

Tiny Home Financing Options

Let’s take a closer look at your options for financing a tiny home, starting with personal loans.

Personal Loans

You can use personal loans for almost any purpose, including the purchase of a tiny home. Loan amounts range from $1,000 to $100,000 and terms extend up to seven years; loan limits and repayment terms vary by lender.

Personal loan interest rates typically range from 5% to 36%, with excellent-credit borrowers securing the lowest rates. Since most personal loans are unsecured, you’ll have to meet a lender’s requirements for credit, income, debt-to-income (DTI) ratio and other factors to qualify.

Some lenders let you apply with a creditworthy co-signer if your own credit isn’t sufficient. Others offer secured loans, which can be easier to qualify for since they’re backed by collateral, likely your tiny home. The risk of borrowing a secured loan, however, is that you could lose your asset if you fall behind on payments.

Some lenders can approve and disburse personal loan funds in as little as one business day. After receiving your loan, you’ll pay it back in fixed monthly installments over a set period of time.

Contractor or Builder Financing

Some tiny home contractors or builders offer financing options through their partner lenders. You’ll still need to meet the lender’s credit and income requirements to qualify, but you might secure a lower interest rate and longer repayment term than you would on a personal loan.

Similar to a conventional mortgage, however, this type of financing might require you to make a down payment. Plus, these loans are usually secured by your tiny home. If you default on the loan, the lender could seize your tiny home as a form of repayment.

RV Loans

If your tiny home is on wheels, it may qualify for an RV loan. RV loans are available for vehicles that meet traffic safety standards and are certified by the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association. You might also have to use your tiny home as your primary residence.

Similar to builder financing, RV loans can offer longer repayment terms than personal loans but might require a down payment. Plus, they’re secured loans that use your tiny home as collateral.

Home Equity Loan or Line of Credit

If you already own a traditional home, you could turn your equity into cash through a home equity loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC). As long as you hold at least 20% equity in your home, you might be able to draw on up to 80% or 90% of its value.

Home equity loans are installment loans—you receive a lump sum upfront and pay it back through monthly payments over a set period of time. HELOCs, on the other hand, work more like a credit card. You have a line of credit that you can draw on as needed.

While home equity loans typically come with fixed interest rates, HELOCs frequently have variable rates. Both of these loan products are secured and use your home as collateral, so you want to be careful not to overextend yourself.

How to Apply for Tiny Home Financing

While the process of applying for tiny home financing can vary, here are some common steps to take:

  1. Check your credit. Lenders review your credit to assess your risk as a borrower, so it’s useful to know what you’re working with before you apply. You can review your credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com and request your credit score from Experian, Equifax or other sources. Taking steps to improve your credit score before you apply could help you secure better interest rates.
  2. Compare financing options. Explore your options for tiny home financing carefully to find the best option for you. Contractor or builder financing, for instance, may not be the most affordable option if you can find a low-rate personal loan on your own from another lender.
  3. Prequalify online. Many personal loan lenders let you check your customized rates through prequalification. The process only takes a few minutes and won’t impact your credit.
  4. Estimate your costs of borrowing. Once you review some offers, use a personal loan calculator to estimate your monthly payments and long-term interest costs. Take rates, fees and loan terms into account to find the most affordable loan.
  5. Submit a complete application. Once you’ve found an offer you like, it’s time to fill out a full application. At this point, the lender will run a hard credit inquiry to check your credit, which could temporarily decrease your score by a few points.
  6. Receive your funds. Assuming your application is approved, the lender will deposit the funds into your bank account. You can then use this money to purchase your tiny home. Review your loan agreement to find out when your payments are due. Consider setting up automatic payments from your bank account so you don’t miss any bills.

Methodology

We reviewed 29 popular lenders based on 16 data points in the categories of loan details, loan costs, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and the application process. We chose the best lenders based on the weighting assigned to each category:

  • Loan cost: 35%
  • Loan details: 20%
  • Eligibility and accessibility: 20%
  • Customer experience: 15%
  • Application process: 10%

Within each major category, we also considered several characteristics, including available loan amounts, repayment terms, APR ranges and applicable fees. We also looked at minimum credit score requirements, whether each lender accepts co-signers or joint applications and the geographic availability of the lender. Finally, we evaluated each provider’s customer support tools, borrower perks and features that simplify the borrowing process—like prequalification options and mobile apps.

Where appropriate, we awarded partial points depending on how well a lender met each criterion.

To learn more about how Forbes Advisor rates lenders, and our editorial process, check out our Loans Rating & Review Methodology.

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