Master the Art of Barndominium Financing
Financing a barndominium might seem daunting, but we're here to guide you. Whether you're buying an existing structure or seeking to build anew, we'll break down the process, from understanding loan options to navigating potential hurdles. Empower yourself with the knowledge to secure the financing you need and turn your barndominium dreams into reality.
Zarina S
Editor
Zarina S
Fact Checked
Update 14.02.2025
Barndominium Financing: Streamlined Solutions for Your Dream Home

A loan to finance a barndominium is a specialized form of construction loan that allows individuals to borrow money specifically to purchase a barndominium property. Lenders classify barndominiums as a unique type of property that combines both a residential dwelling and a barn or agricultural structure, which may include metal buildings.

This type of loan enables borrowers to acquire a barndominium, a unique combination of a barn and a condominium, without paying the full amount upfront. Loaning covers the costs of labor and the cost of materials. The loan amount can be used to cover the cost of the desired barndominium, and borrowers typically repay the loan over a predetermined period, often with fixed monthly installments and an associated interest rate. Many lenders or credit companies may offer construction loans for a barndominium, and the terms and conditions can vary, so it's important for borrowers to carefully review and compare options to find the most suitable loan for purchasing a barndominium property.

Features

  1. Flexible Loan Options tailored to the unique needs of rural homeowners, providing customized repayment terms and loan structures.
  2. Competitive Interest Rates ensure affordability comparable to conventional home loans. The financing includes construction loans that cover the entire project from start to finish.
  3. Longer Repayment Terms are available, allowing for manageable monthly payments over an extended period.
  4. Agricultural-Friendly Features, such as funding options for barns, livestock facilities, and other agricultural structures. With a focus on specialized knowledge and support, lenders in barndominium financing understand the specific requirements and challenges of building and living in a barndominium.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • Affordable Payments. Loaning of a barndominium allows borrowers to spread out the cost of constructing or purchasing a barndominium over a period of time, making it more affordable by breaking down the total amount into manageable monthly installments. This helps individuals in rural areas achieve their dream of owning a barndominium without facing a significant upfront financial burden, which includes labor costs involved in the building process.
  • Immediate Access to Property. With a barndominium building loan, borrowers can gain immediate access to their desired property without waiting until they have saved up the full amount. This enables them to start enjoying the benefits of living in a barndominium sooner and makes the transition from traditional houses to a unique rural living space smoother. Most moneylenders offer quick and efficient loan processing to facilitate timely access to the property.
  • Flexibility in Budgeting. Barndominium loaning provide individuals with the flexibility to allocate their budget more effectively. Instead of depleting a substantial portion of their savings, they can preserve their cash flow for other essential expenses or unforeseen circumstances while still achieving their goal of owning a barndominium. It offers a way to finance the building or purchase of a barndominium at a comfortable pace, including covering labor costs.
  • Upgrade Options. Barndominium loaning offers the flexibility to choose higher-quality or more customized options that might have been out of reach with a one-time cash purchase. Borrowers can select from a wider range of design features, materials, and finishes to create their ideal rural living space within the barndominium. It allows for personalization and the ability to invest in a long-lasting, modern, and functional property. Most moneylenders provide borrowing choices that accommodate various upgrade preferences.
  • Credit Building Opportunity. Successfully managing and repaying a barndominium loaning can have a positive impact on an individual's credit history. Making timely payments demonstrates responsible financial behavior, potentially improving their credit score and creating a foundation for future loan opportunities with favorable terms. The decision to finance a barndominium may help individuals establish or improve their creditworthiness, opening doors to other significant loans like mortgages or property expansions. Many moneylenders offer barndominium loans specifically designed to assist borrowers in building their credit while fulfilling their dream of owning rural property.
Cons
  • Interest Charges. Barndominium loaning typically involves interest charges, which can increase the overall cost of building a barn home. Borrowers need to consider the interest rates and calculate the total amount they will pay, as it may be higher than the original building cost. In some cases, a down payment is required, and this amount should be included in the financial plan for the new building.
  • Potential Debt Burden. Taking on additional debt through barndominium borrowing means borrowers will have ongoing monthly payments to manage. This can add to their overall debt load and affect their financial stability, especially if they have other existing loans or financial obligations. It's important for borrowers to carefully assess their financial capacity to handle the added debt.
  • Impact on Credit. Failure to make timely payments on a barndominium building loan can negatively impact the borrower's credit score. Late or missed payments can result in a lower credit score, making it more challenging to obtain favorable terms for future loans or credit applications. Responsible repayment is crucial for maintaining a good credit standing.
  • Limited Flexibility. Once borrowers commit to a barndominium building loan, they are locked into the repayment schedule. This lack of flexibility can be problematic if their financial circumstances change or if they encounter unexpected expenses during the building process. It's important for borrowers to carefully plan and consider potential financial contingencies.
  • Potential Overbuying. With loan choices available, individuals may be tempted to invest in more expensive or elaborate barndominium designs or features than they actually need. While it's exciting to explore various options, it's essential to stay within budget and consider the long-term financial implications. Overbuying can lead to financial strain if the borrowed amount exceeds the borrower's budget or financial capabilities. Making informed decisions and carefully evaluating the necessary features and costs of constructing a barndominium is advisable.
  • Loan Product Options. Various moneylenders offer specialized loaning products specifically designed to finance barndominium buildings, considering an option for a USDA loan. These loan types may have specific terms and conditions that cater to the unique requirements of building a barn home. Borrowers should explore different moneylenders and compare loan choices to find the most suitable loaning solution that aligns with their budget, timeline, and building plans.

How to get a barndominium loan?

  1. Research Lenders. Start by researching moneylenders that specialize in borrowings for barndominium or building loans. Search for a loan officer with experience and expertise in loaning for these properties. Online search engines, financial institutions, and local banks can be valuable sources when searching for potential moneylenders.
  2. Assess Your Financial Situation. Before approaching a creditor, assess your financial situation to determine how much you can afford to borrow and repay. Take into account your income, expenses, and any existing debt. This assessment will help you determine the loan amount you can comfortably manage.
  3. Gather Documentation. Moneylenders require documentation to evaluate your eligibility for a barndominium credit. Common documents include proof of income, tax returns, bank statements, credit history, and information about the property or land where the barndominium will be constructed.
  4. Determine Loan Purpose and Amount. Clearly define the purpose of the loan, whether it's for a new building or loaning for a standing barndominium. Calculate the estimated loan amount you will need based on the costs associated with building or purchase, including land acquisition, labor, materials, and any additional expenses.
  5. Contact Lenders. Reach out to the selected moneylenders to discuss requirements for barn house loan. Provide them with the necessary documentation and information about your project. Inquire about their loan products, interest rates, terms, and requirements. Make sure to ask about any specific criteria they have for loaning barndominiums.
  6. Loan Application and Approval. Complete the application for the loan, provided by the lender. The application process usually involves submitting the required documentation and undergoing a credit check. The lender will review your application and assess your eligibility for the loan.
  7. Loan Terms and Agreement. If approved, carefully review the loan terms, interest rates, repayment schedule, and any associated fees or closing costs. Seek clarification on any unclear aspects of the loan agreement. Ensure that the terms are favorable and aligned with your financial goals.
  8. Loan Closing and Disbursement. Once you agree to the loan terms, the lender will proceed with the loan closing process. This involves signing the loan agreement and other relevant documents. After the closing, the loan funds will be disbursed, either in a lump sum or in stages throughout the building process.
  9. Construction or Purchase. If it's a new construction loan, collaborate with contractors, architects, and other professionals to initiate and complete the barndominium construction. If it's a loan for an existing barndominium, utilize the funds for the purchase and necessary renovations or improvements.
  10. Repayment. Start making regular loan repayments according to the agreed-upon terms. Stay organized and ensure that you make timely payments to maintain a positive credit history.

    Best places to borrow a loan with bad credit

    Upgrade

    Upgrade is a prominent online lender that offers personal loans to borrowers with bad credit. They provide loan amounts ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, making them suitable for various financial needs. The minimum credit score required by Upgrade is relatively low, typically around 580. This makes it accessible to individuals with a less-than-stellar credit history. One notable advantage of Upgrade is its flexible repayment terms, which can extend up to five years. This longer repayment period allows borrowers to manage their monthly payments more effectively. However, it's worth noting that Upgrade charges origination fees ranging from 2.9% to 8%. Additionally, while they do not have any prepayment penalties, borrowers should be aware of the interest rates, which can be relatively high for individuals with bad credit.

    Upgrade review

    Upstart

    Upstart is another online lender that specializes in providing loans to borrowers with bad credit. Their loan amounts range from $1,000 to $50,000, allowing borrowers to access the funds they need for various purposes. Upstart utilizes a unique underwriting model that takes into account factors beyond just credit scores, making it more inclusive for individuals with limited credit history or low credit scores. The minimum credit score required by Upstart is typically around 580. One of the significant advantages of Upstart is its soft credit check, which means that applying for a loan does not negatively impact your credit score. Repayment terms offered by Upstart range from three to five years, providing borrowers with flexibility. While they do charge origination fees of up to 8%, it's important to note that they don't impose any prepayment penalties. However, borrowers with bad credit should expect higher interest rates.

    Upstart review

    LendingPoint

    LendingPoint is a bad credit lender that offers personal loans ranging from $2,000 to $36,500. They consider borrowers with credit scores as low as 585, making them accessible to individuals with bad credit. LendingPoint prides itself on providing fast funding, often disbursing funds within one business day. Their repayment terms typically range from two to four years, allowing borrowers to tailor their loan duration according to their needs. It's important to note that LendingPoint does charge origination fees that can be up to 6%. They also have a slightly higher interest rate compared to traditional lenders, which is to be expected when borrowing with bad credit. However, they do not impose any prepayment penalties, enabling borrowers to pay off their loans early if they desire.

    Lendingpoint review

    Universal Credit

    Universal Credit is an online lender that specializes in bad credit loans, offering loan amounts ranging from $500 to $15,000. Their minimum credit score requirement is relatively low, typically around 550, making them accessible to borrowers with poor credit. Universal Credit offers repayment terms ranging from six months to five years, allowing borrowers to choose a duration that aligns with their financial situation. While they charge origination fees, the amount may vary based on the borrower's creditworthiness. One notable advantage of Universal Credit is its willingness to consider applicants who have previously filed for bankruptcy. However, borrowers should be aware that the interest rates associated with bad credit loans from Universal Credit may be higher compared to traditional lenders.

    Universal Credit review

    OneMain Financial

    OneMain Financial is a well-established lender that specializes in bad credit loans. They offer loan amounts ranging from $1,500 to $20,000, making them suitable for various financial needs. OneMain Financial requires a minimum credit score of 600, slightly higher than some of the other lenders in this category. However, they have a reputation for considering other factors beyond credit scores when evaluating loan applications. OneMain Financial provides repayment terms that range from two to five years, allowing borrowers to select a term that fits their budget. It's important to note that OneMain Financial charges origination fees, which can vary depending on your residence state. While they do not disclose their interest rates upfront, borrowers with bad credit should expect higher rates.

    Onemain Financial Review

    Avant

    Avant is an online lender that specializes in offering personal loans to individuals with bad credit. They provide loan amounts ranging from $2,000 to $35,000, catering to various financial needs. Avant has a minimum credit score requirement of 580, making them accessible to borrowers with less-than-ideal credit histories. Repayment terms offered by Avant typically range from two to five years, giving borrowers flexibility in managing their monthly payments. While Avant charges origination fees up to 4.75%, they do not impose any prepayment penalties. It's important to note that Avant's interest rates can be relatively high for borrowers with bad credit. However, they provide a transparent prequalification process that allows borrowers to check their potential loan offers without affecting their credit scores.

    Avant

    Requirements and conditions

    1. Credit Score. Moneylenders typically require a minimum credit score to qualify for barn home loaning. A good credit score demonstrates your ability to manage debt responsibly.
    2. Down Payment. Moneylenders may require a down payment for barndominium loaning. More or less, it's same process as lend purchase. The amount can vary but is often a percentage of the total loan amount. Saving for a down payment shows your commitment and reduces the lender's risk.
    3. Income and Debt-to-Income Ratio. Moneylenders may require a down payment for barndominium loaning. More or less it's the same process as a lend purchase. The amount can vary but is often a percentage of the total loan amount. Saving for a down payment shows your commitment and reduces the lender's risk.
    4. Appraisal and Property Evaluation. Lenders will appraise the property to determine its value. For barn house loaning, they consider factors such as the quality of construction, location, and market value. The property's value influences the loan amount you can qualify for.
    5. Permanent Residence. Some lenders require that the barndominium will serve as your permanent residence. They may have restrictions on using it as a vacation home or rental property. Confirm the lender's requirements regarding the intended use of the property.
    6. Purchase Land. Lenders may have specific criteria for the land if you are purchasing land along with the barndominium construction. They might evaluate factors such as location, zoning, access to utilities, and potential resale value.
    7. Construction Materials and Steel Frame. Barndominiums are often constructed with steel frames, and lenders may have preferences or requirements regarding the construction materials. They may consider the durability, safety, and marketability of the property when assessing loan eligibility.
    8. Insurance Requirements. Lenders typically require you to have homeowner's insurance for the barndominium. The insurance should cover both the structure and its contents. The lender may have specific coverage requirements and may need to be listed as the mortgagee on the policy.
    9. Documentation. Prepare to provide documentation such as proof of income, tax returns, bank statements, building plans, contractor agreements, and any necessary permits. These documents help lenders assess your eligibility and verify the details of the construction project.

      Ways to receive the money

      When it comes to loaning for a barndominium, the loan process typically involves the direct transfer of funds to the construction or renovation project. Once your loan is approved and all necessary documentation is completed, the lender will work closely with the contractors, suppliers, or sellers involved to disburse the funds accordingly.

      The lender may utilize various methods such as issuing checks, electronic payments, or other approved transfer methods to ensure that the funds are allocated solely for the purpose of barndominium construction or repair. It's important to remember that the specific procedures and protocols may differ depending on the lender and the agreements established between the lender and the relevant parties involved in the project.

      Things to pay attention to

      1. Interest Rates and Fees. It is important to carefully review the interest rates and any associated fees, such as origination fees or prepayment penalties, when considering barn house loaning through conventional borrowings or separate credits. Understanding the overall cost of the loan and its impact on your budget and financial goals is crucial.
      2. Loan Terms and Repayment Schedule. Take note of the loan terms and repayment schedule provided by the lender. Familiarize yourself with the monthly payment amount, due dates, and the total duration of the loan to ensure that the repayment schedule is manageable within your budget.
      3. Eligibility Criteria and Credit Report. It is essential to understand the lender's eligibility requirements, including their criteria for credit scores and income verification, when applying for barn house financing. Having this information beforehand can help you assess your chances of approval and avoid unnecessary credit inquiries that could negatively impact your credit report.
      4. Loan Amount and Financing Options. Determine the loan amount you need for your barndominium construction or renovation project and verify that the lender offers borrowings within that range. Additionally, explore the different financing types available, such as fixed-rate credits or other suitable options, to find the best fit for your specific needs.
      5. Penalties and Late Fees. Take the time to familiarize yourself with any penalties or late fees associated with missed or late payments. Understanding the consequences of defaulting on the loan can help you make informed decisions and manage your financial obligations responsibly.
      6. Fine Print and Terms and Conditions. Prior to signing any loan documents, thoroughly read and understand the loan agreement, including the fine print and terms and conditions. Pay close attention to clauses related to potential interest rate changes, early repayment options, or loan modifications. Seek clarification from the lender if any terms are unclear or require further explanation.
      7. Impact on Credit Score. Be aware that taking out a barndominium debt will have an impact on your credit score. It is crucial to ensure that you can make the monthly payments on time to maintain a positive credit history. Additionally, confirm with the lender if they report loan activity to credit bureaus, as this can further affect your credit profile.

        How to repay a barndominium loan?

        1. Carefully review the loan agreement provided by the lender, which outlines the repayment terms and conditions specific to your financing of the barndominium. Take note of important details such as the monthly payment amount, interest rate, due date, and any additional fees or charges associated with the loan.
        2. Decide on a convenient payment method for your loan issued for financing of barndominium. You have the option to set up automatic payments with your bank or the lender, allowing the monthly payment to be deducted automatically from your bank account. Alternatively, you can choose to make manual payments each month based on the agreed-upon repayment schedule.
        3. Create a repayment schedule to ensure you make timely payments for your financing of barndominium . Mark the due date on your calendar, set reminders, or use budgeting tools to keep track of your payment obligations. Properly allocating funds in your monthly budget will help ensure that you have the necessary funds available for the payment.
        4. Make your monthly loan payments on or before the specified due date in the loan agreement. Timely payments are essential for maintaining a positive repayment history and avoiding any negative impact on your credit score related to your loan for barndominium.
        5. Monitor your payment progress and keep track of your remaining balance for your barn house financing. This will allow you to stay aware of the amount you have paid off and the remaining amount owed on the loan.
        6. Consider paying off your loan for barndominium early if you have the financial means to do so. Early repayment can help you save on interest costs over the loan term and provide you with financial freedom sooner.
        7. If you encounter any financial difficulties or anticipate challenges in making payments for your barn house financing, it is crucial to communicate with the lender promptly. They may have options available, such as payment extensions or loan modifications, to assist you during times of financial hardship. Open and proactive communication is key to finding a suitable solution.

        Alternatives

        1. Personal Loans. When seeking financing for your barndominium, you have the option to apply for a personal loan from a bank, credit union, or online lender. Personal borrowings typically provide a lump sum of money that can be used for various purposes, including construction, renovation, or repair of your barndominium.

        2. In-Store Financing. Many retailers specializing in construction materials and home improvement offer in-store financing types specifically tailored for barndominium projects. This allows you to make your purchases and repay the amount over a designated period, typically with fixed monthly payments.

        3. Farm Credit Lenders offer a compelling alternative to traditional barndominium loans, catering specifically to the unique needs of rural homeowners. Unlike conventional lenders, farm credit lenders possess a deep understanding of the agricultural industry and the challenges those living in rural areas face. This specialized knowledge allows them to offer flexible financing options tailored to barndominiums, which are a popular choice for rural homeowners seeking a combination of residential and agricultural spaces. Farm credit lenders typically provide competitive interest rates, longer repayment terms, and a comprehensive range of loan products that accommodate barndominium construction and renovation requirements.

        4. Credit Cards. If you have a credit card with a sufficient credit limit, you can utilize it to finance your barndominium construction expenses. However, it's important to consider the interest rates and repayment terms associated with credit card usage, as they can impact the overall cost of your project.

        5. Retailer-Specific Financing. Some retailers collaborate with financial institutions to provide exclusive financing programs for barndominium construction. It's worthwhile to check if the retailer you plan to purchase construction materials or equipment from offers special financing products that can assist you in securing the necessary funds for your project.

        6. Home Equity Loans or Lines of Credit. If you own a property with accumulated equity, you may explore the option of utilizing a home equity loan or line of credit to finance your barndominium. These types of borrowings leverage the equity in your property, allowing you to access a substantial amount of funds that can be used for construction, renovation, or other related expenses. However, it's important to carefully consider the terms, interest rates, and potential risks associated with these types of borrowings, as your property serves as collateral.

        7. VA Construction Loans. A VA loan is a loan program offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that allows eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses to secure financing for the construction, purchase, or refinancing of a barndominium.

        Editorial opinion

        Barndominium new construction borrowings can be beneficial for individuals looking to finance their barndominium projects. They provide the flexibility to spread the construction costs over time, making it more manageable to afford the construction materials, labor, and other expenses associated with building a barndominium. Additionally, some financing types may offer competitive interest rates or deferred payment periods, allowing individuals to begin construction while easing immediate financial strain. While shopping around and doing your own research you may find helpful tips which will help to get the best solution to finance barndominium and make a best bet when signing loan documents. However, it's important to approach borrowings for barndominium with caution and consider potential drawbacks. Taking on additional debt means having additional financial obligations, including interest payments. It's crucial to carefully evaluate the total cost of the loan, including interest charges and fees, to ensure it aligns with your budget and financial objectives, especially in the case with home borrowings. It's essential to thoroughly review and understand the terms and conditions of the loan agreement, paying close attention to interest rates, repayment schedules, and any potential penalties. Ask questions, loan officers are there to help the customers with getting clear before signing the papers for country property financing.

        Important

        Keeping your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio below 30-40% of your monthly income is crucial. This will help you avoid potential financial problems in the future. Additionally, always assess the necessity and feasibility of taking a loan, ensuring you can comfortably manage its repayment.

        How to Choose a Lender

        1. Make sure to confirm whether the lender is licensed to operate in your state. You can verify this information with your state regulator or attorney general.

        2. Check if the lender is a member of a reputable association, such as the Community Financial Services Association of America. Membership in such organizations may provide an extra level of reliability.

        3. Carefully review all the terms and conditions of your payday loan contract.

        4. Thoroughly examine the interest rates on payday loans and ensure that your contract includes a detailed breakdown of the total cost of the loan.

        5. Take advantage of your right of rescission. Usually, you can rescind the loan within three days after signing the agreement. Alternatively, there is typically a "cooling-off" period, which allows you several days to thoroughly review the contract before making an informed decision to enter into a consumer loan agreement based on the terms specified by the lender.

        6. Choosing a payday lender is a significant decision that demands careful consideration and a good understanding of how such organizations operate.

        Additional Resources

        Sources

        FAQ

        Can barndominium be used as collateral?

        Is it hard to get approved for barndonomium loan?

        What credit score do I need to get approved for a barndominium loan?

        30.06.2023
        -
        Update 14.02.2025

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