How to Finance a Shed or Garage: The Complete Guide
A quality Amish-built structure is an investment that lasts for decades — but that doesn't mean you have to pay for it all at once. This guide walks through every financing path available to Stoltzfus Structures customers, so you can pick the one that fits your budget.
Option 1: Fixed-Rate Structure Loan (Most Popular)
Our primary lending partner offers unsecured, fixed-rate loans built for outdoor structures. Highlights:
- Up to $100,000 per borrower — enough for even a large two-story garage
- Fixed rates starting at 8.99% APR (5-year term) — 7 to 15-year terms at 9.99% APR
- 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: Rent-to-Own (No Credit Check)
If your credit score is below 680 — or you simply prefer not to take a loan — Rent-to-Own lets you make fixed monthly payments and own the structure once the balance is paid off.
- No credit check required
- Up to $25,000 with payment terms up to 4 years
- No prepayment penalty — pay it off early and save
Structures that do not qualify for Rent-to-Own:
- 2-story structures
- Timber frame structures
- Pergolas, pavilions & built-on-site structures
- Structures permanently anchored to a foundation
Option 3: Building Loan (Thrive Financial)
If the structure is going 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. Thrive pays Stoltzfus directly, so funding is quick and seamless.
Option 4: 6 Months No Interest & No Payments (Pure Finance)
Up to $20,000 with no minimum payments and no interest for the first 6 months. Apply as an individual or with a co-applicant. You must own your primary residence (it cannot be owned by a business entity), but you don't have to own the property where the structure is going. Not available to customers living in New York or Massachusetts.
Option 5: Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC)
If you own your home, a HELOC can offer lower rates by using your home equity. Our partners include Figure Lending (up to $750,000, minimum 620 FICO, funding in as few as 5 to 10 days) and Better ($50,000–$500,000, cash in as little as 7 days).
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Option | Max Amount | Credit Needed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed-Rate Loan | $100,000/borrower | 680+ FICO | Most buyers — fast, unsecured, predictable |
| Rent-to-Own | $25,000 | None | Smaller sheds, credit-building, flexibility |
| Building Loan (Thrive) | Varies by credit tier | 550+ FICO | Structures on property you own; terms to 20 yrs |
| Pure Finance 6-Mo Promo | $20,000 | Credit approval | Paying off quickly with zero interest |
| HELOC (Figure Lending/Better) | $500k–$750k | 620+ FICO (Figure Lending) | Homeowners financing large projects |
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Use the eligibility check on shedlender.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 start your Stoltzfus project