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Underwriting6 min readDraft — client review
How AVCG evaluates a borrower
The six-step underwriting from the investor's perspective — here's why we say no.
Every deal we fund started with a borrower we approved. Here's what we look for and — as important — what we decline.
What we look for
- Completed prior projects of similar scope and complexity
- Realistic ARV backed by comparable sales, not just optimism
- Detailed scope of work with a credible timeline and budget
- Cash reserves to cover carrying costs and overruns
- A clear, specific exit strategy (sale, refi, or 1031)
- Property in a market we know
Why we decline
- Owner-occupied property (never)
- Optimistic ARV that doesn't hold up to comps
- Rehab budget that ignores contingencies
- Borrower liquidity too thin to absorb an overrun
- Vague exit or a market we don't understand
First-time borrowers
First-timers aren't automatically declined — but the bar is higher and often requires an experienced GC or partner on the deal. That way, borrower inexperience is offset by professional execution.
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