Best Commercial Real Estate Lenders (Top 6 Compared 2025)

The best commercial real estate lenders make it easier for businesses and investors to finance property purchases, refinance existing loans, or fund new developments. Unlike residential mortgages, commercial real estate (CRE) loans involve higher amounts, stricter underwriting, and terms that vary widely by lender.

Choosing the right financing partner can directly affect your closing speed, interest costs, and investment returns. Whether you’re expanding your business, buying a rental property, or starting a construction project, aligning with a lender that understands your needs is key to success.

Best Commercial Real Estate Lenders (Top 6 Compared)

💡 See which lender offers the lowest rate for your project → [Compare Now]

1️⃣ Lendio—Best Overall for Variety and Speed

If you want speed and flexibility, Lendio tops the list. As a loan marketplace with 75+ partner lenders, Lendio helps you compare SBA, bridge, and conventional commercial loans with a single application—usually in under 15 minutes.

Pros:
✅ Access to multiple lenders and loan types
✅ Fast prequalification process
✅ Low minimum loan size for small businesses

Cons:
❌ Rates depend on the partner lender
❌ Not all loan options are available in every state

👉 Get Matched With Lenders on Lendio →

2️⃣ U.S. Bank—Best for Established Businesses

U.S. Bank is ideal for owner-occupied commercial properties and established businesses with steady cash flow. It offers competitive rates, flexible terms up to 25 years, and a personalized underwriting process.

Example:
A $500,000 CRE loan for an office expansion could translate to monthly payments around $3,600–$4,000, depending on the term and rate.

Pros:
✅ Excellent support for long-term CRE ownership
✅ Competitive fixed and variable options
✅ In-person and online servicing

Cons:
❌ Slower approval than online marketplaces
❌ Higher minimum loan amount

👉 Apply for a U.S. Bank CRE Loan →

3️⃣ Bank of America—Best SBA-Backed Options

If you’re seeking SBA 504 or 7(a) loans, Bank of America offers one of the most accessible national programs. It’s a Preferred SBA Lender, meaning faster approvals and dedicated SBA loan officers.

Pros:
✅ SBA 504 / 7(a) loans up to $5M
✅ Competitive down payments (as low as 10%)
✅ Preferred Rewards benefits for existing clients

Cons:
❌ Stricter credit requirements
❌ Documentation-heavy process

👉 See SBA 504 and 7a Programs →

4️⃣ Kiavi—Best for Real Estate Investors

Kiavi specializes in fix-and-flip, DSCR, and rental portfolio loans, making it a top choice for investors. Loans are funded quickly, often in as little as 10 days, and underwriting is tailored to property cash flow rather than personal income.

Pros:
✅ Ideal for flippers and portfolio investors
✅ No income verification on DSCR loans
✅ Transparent rate ranges

Cons:
❌ Not suitable for owner-occupied CRE
❌ Shorter loan terms than traditional banks

👉 Check Kiavi Investor Loans →

5️⃣ Lima One Capital—Best for Construction & Transitional Projects

For developers or investors tackling new builds or major renovations, Lima One Capital offers flexible bridge and construction loans with competitive short-term rates.

The lender focuses on speed to close—many loans fund within 2–3 weeks—and flexible underwriting makes it accessible for non-traditional borrowers.

Pros:
✅ Excellent for new construction and value-add projects
✅ Flexible loan-to-cost ratios
✅ Quick funding times

Cons:
❌ Higher short-term rates
❌ Limited long-term options

👉 Get Construction Loan Quote →

6️⃣ JPMorgan Chase—Best for Institutional/Large-Scale Deals

When you’re dealing with multifamily, industrial, or large CRE projects, JPMorgan Chase stands out. With loans starting around $500K and going beyond $50M, it’s built for institutional-level borrowers seeking stability, reputation, and relationship banking benefits.

Pros:
✅ Deep expertise in large-scale commercial lending
✅ Access to treasury and capital markets support
✅ Attractive terms for existing Chase clients

Cons:
❌ High minimum loan amount
❌ Slower approval timelines

👉 Contact Chase Commercial Lending →

How to Choose the Best Commercial Real Estate Lender for You

Before applying, weigh the following factors:

• Loan Type: SBA vs. Conventional vs. Bridge

• Credit Requirements: Minimum credit score and DSCR

• Speed vs Flexibility: Quick approvals vs long-term cost

• Property Type: Owner-occupied, investment, or construction

✅ Before You Apply Checklist:

• Business financial statements

• 2+ years of tax returns

• Property appraisal or purchase contract

• Rent roll / pro forma (for income properties)

How to Apply for a Commercial Real Estate Loan (Step-by-Step)

1. Prequalify online to check your loan eligibility

2. Submit financial documents (P&L, tax returns, property info)

3. Lender underwriting reviews your DSCR and collateral

4. Receive term sheet and finalize loan agreement

5. Close and fund—often within 2–4 weeks

FAQs About Commercial Real Estate Lenders

What is the easiest lender to qualify for?
Online marketplaces like Lendio or Kiavi are generally easiest due to flexible credit requirements.

Who offers the lowest rates in 2025?
U.S. Bank and Bank of America often provide the most competitive rates for qualified borrowers.

Can you get a commercial loan with bad credit?
Yes—lenders like Lima One and Kiavi may approve deals based on asset value and DSCR, not just credit score.

Is an SBA 504 better than a conventional CRE loan?
A: SBA 504 loans usually offer lower down payments and longer terms, but conventional loans can close faster.

Check out the complete guide here: Commercial Real Estate Loans