The Property
This 33-unit multifamily community located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, consists entirely of 2-bedroom, 1-bath units, each approximately 800 square feet.
The property is owned by a local investor who not only lives in Fayetteville but is deeply connected to the community. While there were no major renovations needed, the asset had been maintained in solid condition and had strong potential for long-term growth.
With current market value pegged at $3,800,000, the goal was to leverage that equity into long-term stability through an agency refinance.
The Challenge
This was the borrower’s first time navigating the agency loan process, which often comes with a learning curve even for experienced investors. And this deal brought an extra layer of uncertainty: occupancy at the property had been fluctuating— enough to make underwriters nervous.
Agency lenders look closely at trends, not just snapshots. Variability in occupancy can make a property appear unstable, especially for a borrower with no previous agency history. The risk? A lower loan amount… or no approval at all.
The Goal
The borrower had three key objectives:
- Secure long-term, stable financing with 30 year amortization
- Low interest rate with as much interest only as possible to lower payments and achieve increased monthly cash flow
- Gain more credit with local bank by getting this loan off bank’s balance sheet
The Solution
We knew this deal required more than just strong numbers—it needed a clear narrative and strategic coordination.
Here’s how we tackled it:
- Hands-on collaboration with the property management team to track leasing velocity and strengthen retention
- Proactive updates to occupancy reports and leasing performance, giving the lender real-time visibility and confidence
- Guidance on positioning the deal with the agencies, highlighting the borrower’s local ownership, engagement, and property condition
By taking control of the process and delivering consistent, data-backed updates, we reassured underwriters and kept the deal on track.
The Results
Despite mid-process occupancy concerns, we achieved a clean win:
- Loan Amount: $2,253,000
- Interest Rate: 5.410%
- Term: 10 years
- Structure: First 2 years interest-only
- Occupancy hurdles cleared and full approval granted
- Agency relationship established for future financing
Why It Matters
For first-time agency borrowers, even a minor red flag can derail a deal. But in this case, partnership and preparation made the difference.
This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about confidence. The lender believed in the story because the story was real: a stable property, a committed local owner, and a clear path to long-term success.
Summary
The Fayetteville 33 refinance showcases what’s possible when preparation meets execution. Despite occupancy volatility and first-time agency status, we closed a $2,253,000 loan at 5.410%, with 2 years of interest-only and a 10-year term.
The outcome? A stable financing structure, full proceeds, and a first agency relationship established—positioning the client for even greater success down the road.
The takeaway is simple: in agency lending, the right strategy transforms uncertainty into opportunity.