What Renovations Increase ARV the Most?

Kitchen and hosting-friendly features tended to add the most at resale in Zillow's 2026 research, with listings mentioning quartzite countertops selling for 5.3% more than expected and outdoor kitchens for 4.4% more. On the exterior, Realtors estimated that a new steel front door recovers about 100% of its cost, the highest of any project in the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report.

Is a Full Kitchen Remodel Worth It on a Flip?

A full kitchen remodel may be worth it when the existing layout is truly dated and nearby comps show renovated kitchens, though Realtors estimated that a complete kitchen renovation and a minor kitchen upgrade each recover about 60% of cost. On many flips, a minor upgrade that keeps the layout and refreshes visible surfaces could offer a better balance of cost and buyer appeal.

Does Adding a Bedroom Increase ARV?

Adding a bedroom could increase ARV when it moves a property into a higher-priced comp set, since bedroom count is often one of the first filters buyers and appraisers use. Local rules on egress windows and closets may decide whether the room counts as a bedroom, so checking requirements before converting a den or bonus room could help.

How Much Should You Spend on Renovations for a Flip?

The right renovation budget for a flip typically depends on the gap between the property's as-is value and recent comparable sales nearby, since upgrades that push past what local buyers have paid may not show up in the sale price. Running the planned scope through an ARV estimate before closing could help keep the budget anchored to the market.

Do Seasonal Touches Help a Flip Sell in Late Fall?

Seasonal staging may help a flip stand out in late fall, when buyers often picture where they might host family and friends. A set dining table and exterior photos taken at dusk could make a listing feel inviting at a low cost, though the underlying upgrades and pricing typically matter most.

Why Did Pending Home Sales Drop in September 2026?

Higher mortgage rates and ongoing affordability pressures may have contributed to the September 2026 decline in pending home sales. According to Redfin, pending sales fell 4% month-over-month to their lowest level since spring 2014, excluding April 2020. For real estate investors, slower buyer activity could create additional negotiating opportunities in certain markets, although local conditions may influence both acquisition and resale strategies.

How Could Higher Mortgage Rates Affect Fix-and-Flip Investors?

Higher conventional mortgage rates could influence fix-and-flip investors by changing purchasing power among prospective resale buyers. However, reduced competition in some markets may also provide opportunities to negotiate acquisition prices or terms. Evaluating current comparable sales, renovation expenses, financing costs, and potential resale conditions could help investors assess how a property fits their strategy.

Can You Use a DSCR Loan to Buy a Primary Residence?

Generally, no. DSCR loans are designed for business-purpose financing of non-owner-occupied rental properties rather than primary residences. Qualification typically focuses on a property's eligible rental income relative to its required debt obligations, alongside other applicable underwriting requirements. Because eligibility criteria vary by lender and program, real estate investors may want to confirm property and borrower requirements before applying.

What Are the Red Flags on a DSCR Loan Deal?

When comparing DSCR loans, real estate investors may want to review the interest rate, origination fees, prepayment penalties, loan term, and any rate adjustment or balloon payment provisions. Understanding how the lender calculates qualifying rental income and monthly debt obligations could also help investors compare offers. Stress-testing a property's rental income and expenses under different scenarios may provide additional context for evaluating financing options.

Are Apartment Rents Rising Again in 2026?

National apartment rents returned to positive annual growth in the third quarter of 2026, according to RealPage Market Analytics. Same-store effective asking rents increased 0.9% year-over-year, marking the first positive annual growth since Q2 2025. The Midwest led all U.S. regions with 2% annual rent growth, while some previously softer Sun Belt markets showed signs of stabilization. Rental trends may still differ considerably by local market and property type.

What Is the Burns + Kiavi Fix and Flip Market Index?

The Burns + Kiavi Fix and Flip Market Index is a quarterly diffusion index developed by John Burns Research and Consulting in partnership with Kiavi. Based on a survey of active fix-and-flip investors, it measures current sales, expected sales, and the availability of pre-flip properties against seasonal norms. Readings above 50 indicate expansion. The index reached 59 in Q2 2026, reflecting continued expansion despite softer investor sentiment compared with the previous quarter.

Are DSCR Loans in Arizona and Colorado a Good Fit in 2026?

DSCR loans in Arizona and Colorado may be a good fit in 2026 for rental investors who can buy at a discount and underwrite rent conservatively. Price cuts in Phoenix and Denver could lower purchase costs, and tax rates below 0.5% in Maricopa and Denver counties may keep PITIA lighter than in higher-tax states.

Do Price Cuts in Phoenix and Denver Improve DSCR?

Price cuts could improve DSCR because a lower purchase price may reduce both the loan payment and the tax bill. In this post's hypothetical example, buying 5% below a $400,000 list price may lift the ratio from 1.08 to 1.14 at the same rent.

How Do Property Taxes in Maricopa and Denver Counties Affect DSCR?

Property taxes in Maricopa and Denver counties may have a modest effect on DSCR, with effective rates of 0.44% and 0.47% according to the Tax Foundation. On a $400,000 rental, that works out to roughly $147-157 a month, compared with about $627 at a New Jersey-level rate.

What Rent Should Rental Investors Assume in Denver or Phoenix?

Rent assumptions in Denver or Phoenix may work best when they reflect current local trends. Denver metro rents were 3.4% below a year earlier in August 2026 and Phoenix rents 2.9% below, per Apartment List, so flat or slightly lower rent could be a reasonable starting point.

Can a Bridge Loan Be Refinanced Into a DSCR Loan?

A bridge loan can often be refinanced into a DSCR loan once a property is renovated and leased, a path commonly associated with the BRRRR strategy. The refinance typically depends on the stabilized property's rent and value supporting the new loan, so testing the future DSCR before buying may reduce surprises.

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6.75%
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01

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03

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Every investment strategy has different financing needs. We offer short-term bridge and fix-and-flip loans, long-term DSCR rental financing, new construction loans, and jumbo financing for larger residential investment projects. Explore your options and see personalized loan pricing online.

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Bridge / Fix-and-Flip Loans

With more than $33.7 billion funded across over 115,000 bridge loans, Kiavi offers competitive rates, high leverage, and flexible financing for your next investment.

Interest Rate

As low as 8.25%^*
Loan Amount

$75,000–$5,000,000^*
Loan Terms

12, 18, or 24 months
Loan-to-Cost (LTC)

Up to 100%^*
After-Repair Value (ARV)

Up to 80%^*
Rehab Financing

Up to 100% of costs^*
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RATES & TERMS

DSCR / Rental Loans

Qualify based on your property's rental cash flow, not W-2s or personal tax returns. Enjoy more flexibility to purchase, refinance, and grow your rental portfolio.

Interest Rate

As low as 6.375%^*
Loan Amount

$75,000–$2,000,000^*
Loan Terms

30-year fixed, 5/1 & 7/1 ARMs
Loan-to-Value (LTV)

Up to 80%^*
Minimum DSCR

As low as 0.8x^*
No seasoning required when refinancing a Kiavi bridge loan or on a free-and-clear property. 90 day seasoning required for other financed properties.
No W-2s • No Tax Returns • No Hard Credit Pull for a Rate Quote

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Finance your next ground-up investment with competitive rates, high leverage, and flexible terms for build-to-sell and build-to-rent projects.

Interest Rate

As low as 9.00%^*
Loan Amount

$150,000–$5,000,000^*
Loan Terms

12, 18, or 24 months
Loan-to-Total-Cost (LTTC)

Up to 90%^*
After-Repair Value (ARV)

Up to 75%^*
Construction Cost Financing

Up to 100%^*
No Application Fees • No Third-Party Appraisals • No Prepayment Penalties

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RATES & TERMS

Jumbo Loans

Access reliable capital, flexible financing options, and personalized VIP support for larger bridge, fix-and-flip, and new construction investments.

Interest Rate

As low as 8.25%^*
Loan Amount

$3,000,000–$5,000,000^*
Loan Terms

12, 18, or 24 months
Purchase Price Financing

Up to 90%^*
After-Repair Value (ARV)

Up to 75%^*
Rehab Financing

Up to 100% of costs^*
No Application Fees • No Appraisals • No Income Verification

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Bridge / Fix-and-Flip Loans
Finance purchases, refinances, and renovations with high leverage and closings in as few as 7 business days*.

Rates as low as 8.25%^*
RATES & TERMS

Bridge / Fix-and-Flip Loans

With more than $33.7 billion funded across over 115,000 bridge loans, Kiavi offers competitive rates, high leverage, and flexible financing for your next investment.
- Interest Rate
  
  As low as 8.25%^*
- Loan Amount
  
  $75,000–$5,000,000^*
- Loan Terms
  
  12, 18, or 24 months
- Loan-to-Cost (LTC)
  
  Up to 100%^*
- After-Repair Value (ARV)
  
  Up to 80%^*
- Rehab Financing
  
  Up to 100% of costs^*
- No Hard Credit Pulls • No Application Fees • No Income Verification
Learn More
DSCR / Rental Loans
Purchase, refinance, or cash out of rental properties with financing based on property cash flow. No W-2s or personal tax returns required.

Rates as low as 6.375%^*
RATES & TERMS

DSCR / Rental Loans

Qualify based on your property's rental cash flow, not W-2s or personal tax returns. Enjoy more flexibility to purchase, refinance, and grow your rental portfolio.
- Interest Rate
  
  As low as 6.375%^*
- Loan Amount
  
  $75,000–$2,000,000^*
- Loan Terms
  
  30-year fixed, 5/1 & 7/1 ARMs
- Loan-to-Value (LTV)
  
  Up to 80%^*
- Minimum DSCR
  
  As low as 0.8x^*
- No seasoning required when refinancing a Kiavi bridge loan or on a free-and-clear property. 90 day seasoning required for other financed properties.
- No W-2s • No Tax Returns • No Hard Credit Pull for a Rate Quote
Learn More
New Construction / Infill Loans
Cover eligible land and construction costs with flexible closing options and no prepayment penalties.

Rates as low as 9.00%^*
RATES & TERMS

New Construction / Infill Loans

Finance your next ground-up investment with competitive rates, high leverage, and flexible terms for build-to-sell and build-to-rent projects.
- Interest Rate
  
  As low as 9.00%^*
- Loan Amount
  
  $150,000–$5,000,000^*
- Loan Terms
  
  12, 18, or 24 months
- Loan-to-Total-Cost (LTTC)
  
  Up to 90%^*
- After-Repair Value (ARV)
  
  Up to 75%^*
- Construction Cost Financing
  
  Up to 100%^*
- No Application Fees • No Third-Party Appraisals • No Prepayment Penalties
Learn More
Jumbo Loans
Finance larger residential investment projects with competitive pricing, flexible loan terms, and personalized VIP support.

Rates as low as 8.25%^*
RATES & TERMS

Jumbo Loans

Access reliable capital, flexible financing options, and personalized VIP support for larger bridge, fix-and-flip, and new construction investments.
- Interest Rate
  
  As low as 8.25%^*
- Loan Amount
  
  $3,000,000–$5,000,000^*
- Loan Terms
  
  12, 18, or 24 months
- Purchase Price Financing
  
  Up to 90%^*
- After-Repair Value (ARV)
  
  Up to 75%^*
- Rehab Financing
  
  Up to 100% of costs^*
- No Application Fees • No Appraisals • No Income Verification
Learn More

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BRIDGE & FIX-AND-FLIP FINANCING

More Possibilities With Kiavi Fix-and-Flip Loans.

Our bridge and fix-and-flip loans provide short-term financing for eligible property purchases and renovations, with financing available for approved rehab costs. As work progresses, investors can request and track renovation disbursements through our digital draw process.

With more than $33.7 billion in bridge loans funded across more than 115,000 transactions, Kiavi brings extensive lending experience to every stage of your next fix-and-flip project.

Renovated property showing draw status for Kiavi fix and flip loans and bridge financing.

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INTELLIGENT LENDING

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Our digital tools help real estate investors move faster, reduce manual work, and make more informed financing decisions. From evaluating a property's potential to customizing loan terms and managing renovation draws, our award-winning technology gives you more visibility and control throughout the financing process.

Use our ARV Calculator to estimate a property's after-repair value, cash to close, and potential financing details. It's a faster way to evaluate a fix-and-flip opportunity before making your next move.

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Explore personalized loan pricing, compare loan terms, and review financing options with greater transparency. For eligible DSCR scenarios, investors can evaluate how rate, points, and loan structure could affect monthly costs and closing expenses.

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Spend less time entering renovation details manually. Our technology helps extract project information from uploaded scopes of work, making it easier to organize eligible rehab costs during the loan process.

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Request and track renovation draws as work progresses. Eligible projects can also use digital inspection tools to help document completed work and keep the process moving.

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SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY INVESTOR

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Every investor starts somewhere. Since 2013, Kiavi has helped more than 34,000 real estate investors finance their first properties, take on new opportunities, and build growing portfolios. No matter where you are in your investing journey, we're here to help you make your next move.

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THE KIAVI BROKER PROGRAM

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Partner with Kiavi to offer your investor clients competitive bridge and fix-and-flip, DSCR rental, and other eligible investment property financing options. With 24/7 online pricing, pre-qualification tools, competitive compensation, and dedicated broker support, you'll have the resources to deliver more for your clients and grow your business.

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“As a new real estate investor, I was looking for a partner that could support my goals while treating me like an individual with my own unique strategy. Kiavi made the process extremely intuitive, seamless, and efficient, allowing me to place aggressive offers knowing I had the backing of my finance partner. […] Kiavi has been key to closing my first deal, with deals two and three already in the pipeline!”

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5.0 via Google Reviews

“I had to change lenders mid-contract, and they were able to meet the tight deadline and close the loan in seven days. I absolutely love the ease and transparency of being able to price out my loans in the Kiavi portal and how seamless the underwriting process has been. I will definitely be using them again and 10/10 recommend!”

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“Kiavi is extremely easy to work with. I've closed four deals with them in the past five months. I work with several other private lenders, and Kiavi is one of the easiest to work with. I highly recommend them to any investors who need fast funding for rehab and rental deals.”

Joseph N.

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REAL ESTATE INVESTING RESOURCES

Real Estate Investing Guides, Insights, and Resources.

There's always something new to learn in real estate investing. Explore practical guides, housing market research, and expert perspectives to help you make informed decisions, whether you're evaluating your first investment property or managing multiple projects.

Fix and Flip

11 min read · Yesterday

Top Renovations That Increase ARV, Room by Room

Renovations that increase ARV tend to be the ones buyers can picture using, and this guide walks fix-and-flip investors ...

Financing

14 min read · 4 days ago

Kiavi Investor Pulse: October 2026 Market and Financing Update

October 2026 housing market trends point to potential opportunities for real estate investors, from greater negotiating ...

Read More
DSCR & Rental

11 min read · Oct 26, 2026

Arizona and Colorado DSCR Loans: Phoenix and Denver 2026

DSCR loans in Arizona and Colorado may deserve a fresh look in 2026, as Phoenix and Denver combine frequent price cuts ....

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