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Commercial Real Estate Loan Requirements

Commercial mortgages fund office, retail, industrial, multifamily, and mixed-use properties — with different rules than residential. Here’s what lenders look for.

MBReviewed by Mike Basti, Mortgage Broker & Founder · NMLS #377740
Quick Answer

Commercial loans typically need 20–35% down, a property that cash flows (DSCR around 1.20–1.25+), solid credit, business/financial documentation, and often reserves. Owner-occupied deals may access SBA financing.

Down payment, DSCR & docs

Expect 20–35% down and a focus on the property’s net operating income versus the payment (DSCR). Lenders review business financials, rent rolls, leases, and your credit and experience.

Owner-occupied vs. investment

Owner-occupied commercial (you run a business in the space) can qualify for SBA 504/7(a) financing with lower down payments. Investment commercial is underwritten mainly on the property’s cash flow. We source both.

RequirementTypical
Down payment20–35% (less with SBA)
DSCR~1.20–1.25+
CreditStrong; experience helps
DocsFinancials, leases, rent roll

Frequently asked questions

How much down for a commercial property?

Commonly 20–35%. Owner-occupied SBA options can require significantly less.

What DSCR do commercial lenders want?

Often 1.20–1.25 or higher — net operating income comfortably above the payment.

Can I use an SBA loan?

If you occupy the property for your business, SBA 504/7(a) may allow lower down payments. We’ll check eligibility.

Save Financial is a California-licensed mortgage brokerage (NMLS #377740, DRE #01875766). Figures are illustrative for 2026 and not an offer of credit.

Financing a commercial property? Let’s talk.

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