Financing
Find clear, straightforward information about ADU Financing , costs, and payment options. Learn about budget-friendly solutions, flexible financing plans, and ways to maximize value without compromising quality.
Financing Options
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Financing
Understanding Modular Home Financing
Because modular homes are built on a permanent foundation, they are considered real property. This means you can finance a modular home with a traditional mortgage, just like any other house.
Financing Your ADU
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) loans can finance your ADU, whether you call it an in-law unit, granny flat, backyard apartment, or secondary dwelling unit. These loans can significantly increase your home's value. While the average cost of an ADU can range from $100,000 to $300,000, keep in mind that rental income for ADUs in California can range from $1,900 to $2,300 per month for a two-person family, offering a substantial return on investment.
Funding Options for Modular Homes and ADUs
When it comes to modular home financing, several loan options can help you secure the funding you need. These include:
If you're building a new modular home, you'll need a construction loan. If the land isn't already acquired, a land loan will also be necessary. Be aware that construction loans often require higher down payments.
Utilize the equity in your existing home to fund your modular project or ADU.
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers mortgages for modular homes. These generally require a minimum down payment of 3.5% for homes affixed to a foundation.
For eligible homebuyers in rural areas, USDA loans from the U.S. Department of Agriculture can be an option. These loans sometimes allow for no down payment and may cover both the home and the necessary land.
Qualifying military connections can allow homebuyers to purchase a modular home with as little as 0% down through VA loans.
Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) lets you borrow against your home's equity, offering a revolving line of credit up to a set limit. With HELOC, you only pay interest on the amount of cash you've actually drawn, typically over a period of up to 10 years.
A cash-out refinance allows you to access the equity built up in your home to finance your ADU's construction. This involves refinancing your existing first mortgage for a larger amount, and you receive the difference in cash.
Freddie Mac allows the financing of properties with ADUs through all their mortgage offerings, providing flexibility for borrowers to finance, refinance, or build an ADU. Rental income from an ADU can even be used as qualifying income if specific requirements are met.
The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) provides a list of state grants and financial incentives for ADUs with affordable rent for very low to moderate-income households. Examples include
CalHome Program — State funds to local public agencies and nonprofit corporations for first-time homebuyer mortgage assistance including a home purchase with an ADU or JADU
San Diego Housing Commission ADU Finance Program — The program provides financial assistance in the form of construction loans (up to $200,000) and technical assistance (at no cost to the homeowner) that helps homeowners understand and complete the process of building an ADU.
City of Clovis: ADU Finance Program — Provides financing to eligible property owners seeking funding to build or repair ADUs on their existing single-family lot in the City of Clovis.
Santa Cruz County: ADU Forgivable Loan Program — Offers forgivable loans up to $40,000 to homeowners who rent ADUs to low-income households at affordable rents for up to 20 years.
San Mateo County: One Stop Shop Program — Provides no-cost support from Hello Housing with the design, permitting, and project management involved with building an ADU.
Monterey Bay: My House My Home Program — Creates affordable ADUs for low-income senior homeowners in the Monterey Bay area.
City of San Jose: Accessory Dwelling Unit Program — Provides pre-approved ADU plans and support for ADU construction.
City of Chico ADU Program — Provides pre-approved ADU plans and support for ADU construction.
Housing Trust Silicon Valley — Provides funding to support homeownership, rental housing, development financing, and offers programs for homeowners.
Loan Requirements
Modular Home Loan Requirements
As you move through the modular home purchase process, here are the typical loan requirements you’ll encounter:
Credit Score
While lenders often prefer good credit, many are willing to work with prospective modular home buyers who may not have a perfect score. For instance, the USDA does not have a minimum credit score requirement.
Down Payment
A 20% down payment isn't always necessary. In fact, some loan programs require no down payment at all.
Sufficient Income
You'll need to demonstrate enough income to comfortably cover your loan payments.
Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio
Most lenders set a maximum DTI ratio, typically around 43%, though this can vary. If your DTI is high, consider paying down other debts before applying for a home loan.