How to Finance Your Site Prep Project: The Complete Guide
Every great structure starts with a solid foundation — but a professionally installed gravel pad, concrete foundation, driveway, or septic system is an investment. This guide walks through every financing path available to Site Prep customers, so you can pick the one that fits your budget.
Option 1: Fixed-Rate Project Loan (Most Popular)
Our primary lending partner, Upgrade, offers fixed-rate loans that work for any site prep project. Highlights:
- Up to $100,000 per borrower — enough for even a large excavation, foundation, or full-property project
- Fixed 9.99% APR on 5, 7, 10, 12, and 15-year terms
- No land ownership required — renters and business-owned properties qualify
- No down payment, no closing costs, no fees, no prepayment penalty
- Soft credit pull to see your offers — your credit is only impacted when you accept an offer and eSign
- Same-day approvals available — proof of income may not be required
Who it's for: borrowers with a FICO score of 680 or higher who want predictable payments and the lowest hassle.
Option 2: Building Loan (Thrive Financial) — Coming Soon
If the work is being done on property you own (lot numbers and parcel IDs accepted), Thrive Financial's building loan program offers fixed terms of 5, 10, 15, or 20 years with instant, paperless decisions — and credit scores from 550 can qualify. Rates are based on your credit tier, starting at 7.99% APR with autopay enrollment, with loans up to $200,000. Thrive pays Site Prep directly, so funding is quick and seamless. This program is launching soon — check the Payment Estimator for updates.
Option 3: Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
If you own your home, a HELOC can offer lower rates by using your home equity. Our partner Figure Lending offers lines up to $750,000 with a minimum 600 FICO score and funding in as few as 5 to 10 days — with a 100% online application.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Option | Max Amount | Credit Needed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed-Rate Project Loan (Upgrade) | $100,000/borrower | 680+ FICO | Most buyers — fast, predictable |
| Building Loan (Thrive — coming soon) | $200,000 | 550+ FICO | Projects on property you own; terms to 20 yrs |
| HELOC (Figure Lending) | $750,000 | 600+ FICO | Homeowners financing large projects |
What Can You Finance?
- Gravel shed pads — Economy Stone Base, Premium Stone Base & Deluxe Stone Foundation
- Concrete pads & foundations — sheds, garages, houses, pole barns, horse barns & gazebos
- Excavation, land grading & drainage
- Gravel driveways & parking pads
- Septic system installation & sewer repairs
- Artificial turf backyards, pet turf, swing set bases, hot tub & pool pads
- Shed removal & demolition
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Use the eligibility check on sitepreplender.com — about 30 seconds, no credit impact
- Step 2: Review the programs you match with and estimated payments
- Step 3: Apply online with the lender — soft pull only to see offers
- Step 4: Accept your offer, eSign, and get your Site Prep project on the schedule — most projects are completed within 2–4 weeks