Texas Recreational Land Financing — Your Weekend Retreat Awaits
Texas is the premier destination for recreational land ownership. Whether you're looking for a hunting property in the Hill Country, a fishing retreat in East Texas, a weekend ranch in the Cross Timbers, or a retirement spread in the rolling plains, First Source Capital Mortgage has the financing programs to make it happen.
Recreational land financing is different from residential mortgages. Many banks and credit unions won't finance raw land or properties without a primary residence. Farm Credit cooperatives may require agricultural use. That leaves recreational buyers with limited options — often hard money lenders or cash-only deals.
As an independent broker, we work with investors who specifically seek recreational land loans in Texas. These lenders understand the market, they know how to value recreational properties, and they offer competitive long-term fixed rates. We shop your deal across multiple investors to find the best rate and terms for your specific property.
Since 1993, we've helped hundreds of Texans finance their recreational properties — from 20-acre deer leases to 2,000-acre hunting ranches. We understand wildlife management plans, ag exemptions on recreational land, mineral rights, and the unique appraisal challenges of undeveloped properties. For a focused overview of financing for deer, waterfowl, and managed-game properties, review our Hunting Land Loans program. Call Dan at 888-484-1256 for an honest assessment.
Recreational Property Types We Finance
Recreational Land Loan Terms
Loan Amounts
$50,000 to $5,000,000+ depending on property
Loan Terms
10, 15, 20, 25, and 30-year fixed-rate options
Down Payment
20-25% typical. May be lower with improvements or strong borrower profile.
Credit Score
Minimum 640 FICO. Better rates at 680+.
Rates
Call for today's rates — 888-484-1256
Recreational Land Loan FAQ
Can you finance raw land for recreational use?
Yes. We finance raw/unimproved recreational land including hunting tracts, fishing properties, weekend retreats, and future retirement land. Most programs require 20-25% down on raw land. Properties with improvements (fencing, roads, blinds, ponds) may qualify for better terms.
What is the minimum acreage for a recreational land loan?
Most of our recreational land programs start at 10 acres, with some investors going as low as 5 acres. The sweet spot for recreational land financing is 20-500 acres. We can also finance larger tracts (500-5,000+ acres) through specialized investors.
Do I need to build on the property to get financing?
No. Many of our recreational land borrowers have no immediate plans to build. You can finance raw land for hunting, fishing, camping, or future use without any construction requirement. Some programs do offer better terms if you plan to build a residence within a certain timeframe.
What down payment do I need for hunting property?
Recreational and hunting land typically requires 20-25% down payment. Raw land without improvements is usually 25%. Land with a cabin, home, or significant improvements may qualify for 15-20% down. Strong borrower profiles can sometimes reduce these requirements.
Can I finance a hunting lease property?
Yes, but with some considerations. If you're purchasing land that currently has hunting leases, those leases can actually help your qualification by demonstrating income potential. However, the property must still meet minimum appraisal requirements regardless of lease income.
Do you finance land with a cabin or weekend home?
Absolutely. Properties with existing cabins, weekend homes, or hunting lodges often qualify for better terms than raw land because the improvements add appraised value. We can finance the land and improvements in one loan.
What about mineral rights on recreational land?
Mineral rights are common in Texas recreational land transactions. We can finance properties with full mineral rights, partial mineral rights, or no mineral rights. Properties with active mineral production may have additional considerations. We understand these complexities and can guide you through the process.
Can I use recreational land as collateral for other purchases?
If you own recreational land with equity, you may be able to use it as collateral for additional land purchases or improvements. Cash-out refinancing on recreational land is available through some of our investors. Call to discuss your specific situation.
How are recreational land properties appraised?
Recreational land appraisals consider comparable sales of similar properties, location, access, water features, wildlife habitat quality, improvements, and development potential. We work with appraisers experienced in rural and recreational properties who understand how to properly value these unique assets.
What are current rates for recreational land loans?
Rates vary based on property type, acreage, improvements, down payment, and borrower qualifications. Recreational land rates are typically slightly higher than residential rates due to the property type. Call 888-484-1256 for today's rates on your specific scenario.
NMLS #217672 | First Source Capital Mortgage, Inc.