Austin, Texas, September 5, 2025
News Summary
Easy Street Capital, an Austin-based private lender, has increased leverage on its EasyBuild construction product to offer up to 90% Loan-to-Cost (LTC) and 75% Loan-to-Value (LTV) for borrowers who have completed at least three construction projects. The change raises previous caps of 85% LTC and 70% LTV and aims to reduce required upfront equity, accelerate funding, and enable larger single-family and multifamily developments. Access is limited to experienced sponsors and tied to standard underwriting safeguards — documented budgets, schedules and past performance — to balance faster deployment of capital with risk controls.
Easy Street Capital boosts construction loan leverage to speed up homebuilding
Effective immediately, Easy Street Capital has increased the leverage available to experienced builders under its EasyBuild program, allowing qualified borrowers to finance a larger share of new construction costs. The move raises maximum Loan‑to‑Cost (LTC) to 90% and Loan‑to‑Value (LTV) to 75% for builders with a proven track record of at least three completed construction projects. The change replaces prior limits of 85% LTC and 70% LTV.
What this means now
The updated terms reduce the amount of upfront equity required from experienced investors and make it easier for them to start larger single‑family and multifamily projects quickly. The program is intended to help lenders and builders respond faster to demand by funding construction with a smaller equity gap.
Who qualifies
Borrowers are eligible for the higher leverage only if they can demonstrate a history of at least three completed construction deals. The program continues to emphasize a streamlined process, competitive pricing, and customized loan structures that fit the scope and timeline of each project.
Why the change was made
The adjustment comes as market participants point to a worsening shortage of housing supply nationwide. Recent housing data cited in the company announcement points to a shortfall measured in the millions of homes, a gap that industry participants say is pressuring prices and availability. The higher leverage is presented as a way to let proven builders scale up production and help close that gap.
Program focus and use
The EasyBuild loans are designed to support both single‑family and multifamily construction. Key program goals include faster funding for shovel‑ready projects, reduced upfront capital needs for developers, and flexibility to structure loans around each project’s unique risks and timelines. The lender notes continued emphasis on speed of execution and tailored lending terms rather than a one‑size‑fits‑all approach.
Context in the market
Greater leverage from private lenders is one of several tools developers are using to respond to tight housing supply. In recent months, construction and project financing activity has included large utility‑scale energy storage deals, sizable construction loans for affordable housing, and industrial development financings — all pointing to an active capital market for projects that can clear underwriting and prove out returns.
Practical considerations for borrowers
Borrowers should note that higher leverage increases reliance on future value and careful cost control during construction. Lenders typically require clear budgets, experienced general contractors, and robust exit plans. Projects that meet those thresholds and a developer track record may access the new maximums; others will still be evaluated under standard underwriting rules.
Where the program is offered
The lender operates nationally and says the EasyBuild updates apply across its footprint. The company is headquartered in Austin, Texas, and positions its construction lending as part of a broader suite of financing options for real estate investors.
Bottom line
The increase to 90% LTC and 75% LTV for qualified, experienced builders is aimed at lowering upfront capital needs and speeding project starts. It is positioned as a targeted response to broad housing shortages and is available now for developers who meet the stated experience threshold.
FAQ
Q: What exactly changed in the EasyBuild program?
A: The program raised its maximum leverage levels for qualified builders to 90% loan‑to‑cost and 75% loan‑to‑value, up from 85% LTC and 70% LTV.
Q: Who is eligible for the higher leverage?
A: Experienced builders with a verifiable track record of at least three completed construction projects can access the enhanced terms.
Q: What types of projects are eligible?
A: The program supports single‑family and multifamily construction projects, including developments that move quickly from permit to ground‑breaking.
Q: Does higher LTC/LTV mean less risk for builders?
A: Not necessarily. Higher leverage reduces the equity required up front but increases reliance on accurate cost control, stable markets, and successful project completion to preserve returns.
Q: How does this help address housing shortages?
A: By allowing proven builders to start more or larger projects with less equity, the change aims to speed up the delivery of new homes and units that can help reduce the current supply gap.
Q: Where can I get more details or apply?
A: Interested developers should contact the lender or a qualified loan officer directly for program specifics, underwriting criteria, and application steps.
Key features at a glance
| Feature | Previous | Updated |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum LTC | 85% | 90% |
| Maximum LTV | 70% | 75% |
| Eligibility | Standard underwriting | At least three completed construction deals required for top tiers |
| Project types | Single & multifamily | Single & multifamily with faster funding emphasis |
| Geography | National footprint | National footprint |
| Main goal | Support construction lending | Lower equity barrier to accelerate homebuilding |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
Additional Resources
- Morningstar/GlobeNewswire: Easy Street Capital increases leverage for new construction financing
- Wikipedia: Construction loan
- PR Newswire: Jupiter Power secures $286M construction financing for utility-scale battery projects
- Google Search: Jupiter Power construction financing battery energy storage
- REBusinessOnline: Associated Bank provides $60.4M construction loan for Metro Austin affordable housing
- Google Scholar: Associated Bank construction loan affordable housing Austin
- JLL: Construction financing secured for industrial development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: industrial development
- Multi-Housing News: Buying borrowers some extra time — condo inventory lending
- Google News: condo inventory lending
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