How to Finance an Airbnb Property
By: Maggerose Carado | Sept. 6, 2025

1. Traditional Mortgage – A Classic Way to Finance an Airbnb Property
Conventional loans remain the most common choice for property investment. These mortgages offer long repayment terms and lower rates to borrowers with strong credit and verifiable income.
2. Second Home Loan – Flexible Financing Options for an Airbnb Property
A second-home mortgage is great if you plan occasional personal use alongside short-term rentals. Lenders may impose restrictions, but rates are usually favorable.
3. DSCR Loan – Income-Based Loans for Short-Term Rental Investments
With DSCR loans, approval is based on projected rental income instead of personal finances. This helps investors scale faster in the Airbnb market.
4. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) – Smart Financing for Airbnb Hosts
Tap into your home equity to fund down payments, renovations, or furnishings. Unlike a standard home equity loan, HELOCs offer flexible draw periods.
5. Hard Money Loan – Fast Financing Options for Airbnb Property Flips
If speed is a priority, hard money lenders can offer quick approvals. These financing solutions are especially useful for fix-and-flip investment strategies, though they come with higher rates.
6. Private Financing – Alternative Loans for Short-Term Rental Success
Private lenders offer flexible terms when banks say no. Agreements may include seller financing, making this route ideal for unconventional property deals.
7. Short-Term Rental (STR) Mortgage Loans – Tailored Financing Options for Airbnb Investors
Some lenders now specialize in Airbnb mortgage products designed for term rental operations. These options often prioritize property cash flow over tax returns.
8. New Construction Loan – Build Your Own Airbnb Property from the Ground Up
Perfect for custom cabins or ADUs, these financing tools release funds in phases. For those investing in a long-term Airbnb strategy, new construction loans can set the foundation for steady cash flow. Once complete, you can often refinance into a traditional mortgage.
9. Fix-n-Flip Loan – Renovation Financing Options for Profitable Airbnb Rentals
These loans bundle purchase and rehab costs. They’re excellent for investors who buy distressed homes, upgrade them, and launch them as high-performing Airbnbs.
Loan Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
Conventional Loans | Long-term property investment | Low rates, stability | Strict requirements, higher down pay |
Second Home Mortgage | Airbnb + personal use | Favorable terms | Usage restrictions |
DSCR Loan | Short-term rentals income-based approval | Scales portfolio faster | Slightly higher rates |
HELOC / Home Equity Loan | Renovations or furnishings | Flexible financing options | Variable rates |
Hard Money Loan | Quick flips or distressed homes | Fast approval | High costs |
Private or Seller Financing | Alternative Airbnb property deals | Negotiable terms | Riskier structure |
STR Mortgage Loan | Airbnb-focused lenders | Designed for term rental income | Limited availability |
New Construction Loan | Building from scratch, investing long-term | Phased disbursement | More paperwork |
Fix-n-Flip Loan | Renovating for Airbnb success | Covers purchase + rehab | Short terms |
Final Word
The right financing depends on your goals:
- Stable Airbnb property operations → Conventional loans or second-home mortgage
- Fast flips or heavy rehabs → Hard money or fix-n-flip
- Cash-flow-driven investors → DSCR or STR financing
Before choosing, compare lenders carefully, review repayment terms, and consider your long-term investment plan.
Final Thoughts
At BNB Lending, we understand that financing an Airbnb property isn’t one-size-fits-all. Every host has different goals—whether you’re looking to purchase your first short-term rental, expand your property investment portfolio, or refinance an existing Airbnb mortgage. That’s why we specialize in financing options designed specifically for Airbnb investors.
Our team connects you with lenders who understand the short-term rental market, making it easier to secure the right mortgage and maximize your cash flow. If you’re ready to start investing in profitable Airbnb properties, BNB Lending is here to guide you every step of the way.
👉 Explore your options today at bnb-lending.com.