Sports Property Loans
Flexible financing solutions for modern sports and athletic facilities
What are sports property loans?
Sports property loans are specialized commercial real estate loans designed to finance income-producing athletic and sports-related facilities. These properties include indoor and outdoor sports complexes, training centers, fitness and athletic clubs, turf fields, arenas, tennis facilities, and multi-sport venues. We structure financing for sports facilities by evaluating both the real estate and the operating model behind it. Sports properties are often community-driven, membership-based, or event-focused, which means underwriting goes beyond the building itself.
Loan guidelines and borrower requirements
Loan-to-Value (LTV)
55%–70% LTV needed for sports property loans, depending on property performance, location, and sponsor experience.
Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR)
Rize Mortgage looks for a 1.25–1.40 DSCR, but seasonal properties can qualify with strong cash flow.
Credit & Experience
Borrowers need a 680+ credit score along with experience operating sports, fitness, or recreational facilities.
Equity contribution
Most transactions require 30%–45% equity, which may include cash, land value, or documented improvements.
What makes sports property financing unique
Usage-based revenue
Sports facilities generate income through memberships, rentals, leagues, training programs, and events.
Operational involvement
Sports complexes depend heavily on scheduling, programming, staffing, and community engagement.
Specialized construction and buildouts
Fields, courts, turf, lighting, and training equipment can impact replacement cost and long-term value.
Local market demand
Demographics, youth participation, and regional competition play a major role in performance.
Documents required for sports property loans
Project overview or loan request summary
Purchase agreement or renovation scope
Revenue breakdown (memberships, rentals, events)
Last 2–3 years of operating statements
Pro forma financial projections (3–5 years)
Business and personal financial statements
Market study or demand analysis (if available)
Appraisal and environmental Phase I report
Personal and business tax returns (2–3 years)
Entity documents (LLC operating agreement, K-1s)
Insurance certificates and property condition reports
Loan terms you can expect
Interest rates
Rates depend on property, revenue, and sponsor strength. We offer fixed and floating rates to match your strategy.
Loan structure
Loans for sports complexes can cover stabilized operations or financing for renovations and expansions.
Term length
Typical loan terms range from 3–10 years, with shorter terms for repositioning and longer terms for stabilized facilities.
Recourse vs. non-recourse
Most sports property loans are recourse, but non-recourse options may be available for strong assets.
Permanent financing option
Facilities being improved can be set up with a planned refinance into long-term financing once stabilized.
Closing timeline
Most loans close within 45–90 days, depending on documentation, third-party reports, and property complexity.
Eligible vs ineligible properties
Indoor and outdoor sports complexes
Training facilities and athletic performance centers
Turf fields and multi-sport venues
Community and private sports facilities
Facilities with inconsistent utilization
Properties with limited operating history
Highly seasonal venues without reserves
Outdated facilities requiring major upgrades
Simple step-by-step loan process
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
How much equity is required for sports property loans?
Most sports property loans require 30%–45% equity, depending on the facility type, revenue stability, and market demand. Facilities with long-term contracts, memberships, or strong historical performance may qualify for lower equity requirements.
Can owner-operated sports facilities qualify for financing?
Yes. Many loans for sports complexes involve owner-operated facilities. We evaluate operating history, management experience, and cash flow consistency. Strong documentation and realistic projections can improve approval chances.
Are sports facilities considered investment properties?
If the facility generates income and is structured as a separate legal entity, it may qualify as a sports property mortgage or investment loan, even when the owner is actively involved in operations.
Is financing available for expanding or upgrading a sports complex?
Yes. Financing sports facilities can include expansions, turf replacements, lighting upgrades, locker room renovations, or added courts and fields. Proper budgeting and planning are essential.
How long does the full financing process take?
From application to closing, sports property loans typically take 45–90 days, depending on property complexity, documentation readiness, and underwriting requirements.
Start financing your sports property today
We understand the operational and financial dynamics of sports facilities. We help owners and investors secure the right sports property loan.