Before and After: Why Documentation Matters in Rehab Lending

October 8, 2025

Short answer:

Before-and-after documentation—especially photos—is critical in rehab lending. It protects both the borrower and the lender, supports draw requests, and builds trust through transparency.

Whether you're flipping a home in Dallas or renovating a duplex in Collin County, documenting your project the right way can be the difference between smooth funding and costly delays.

Why Documentation Is a Big Deal in Rehab Loans

When you borrow from a private lender like Silverton Capital to renovate a property, you're usually getting a draw-based loan. That means:

  • You receive the purchase funds at closing
  • You receive rehab funds in stages as you complete work

To release those rehab funds, your lender needs proof that the work has been done—and done right. That’s where documentation comes in.

But it's more than just a formality. It helps you:

  • Stay organized
  • Avoid disputes
  • Get paid faster
  • Build long-term trust with your lender

The 3 Types of Documentation Lenders Look For

Here’s what most private lenders require during a rehab project—especially when you’re requesting a draw.

1. Before-and-After Photos

Photos are the gold standard of documentation. They show the visible transformation and serve as timestamped proof of progress.

Best practices include:

  • Take “before” photos from multiple angles before demo begins
  • Use the same angles for “after” shots to show clear comparisons
  • Photograph all major areas: kitchen, bathrooms, flooring, exterior, mechanicals, etc.
  • Keep all images labeled and dated (or organized by room/phase)

At Silverton Capital, we often process draws faster when the documentation is clean and easy to follow.

2. Receipts and Invoices

Lenders want to see that money is being used as intended—on legitimate labor and materials. Always keep:

  • Contractor invoices
  • Receipts for materials (Home Depot, Lowe’s, specialty vendors)
  • Subcontractor payment logs or checks
  • Contracts for large scope items (roofing, HVAC, plumbing, etc.)

If you're working with licensed pros, request invoices with line items. It helps support your draw request and shows that you’re managing the project professionally.

3. Scope of Work & Progress Updates

Your original Scope of Work (SOW) is the baseline. As you move through the project, update it as needed.

Your lender may ask for:

  • A current status of what’s complete
  • What’s underway
  • What’s coming next

This level of communication helps prevent confusion and keeps your funding on track.

Why This Matters for Draw Requests

Here’s how it plays out in real life:

Without documentation:

You request a $15,000 draw for bathroom and kitchen updates. But there are no receipts, and the photos are blurry or missing. The lender delays funding until they can verify the work.

With proper documentation:

You submit clear before-and-after shots of new tile, cabinetry, and fixtures—along with two contractor invoices. The draw is approved and released within 48 hours.

Speed matters. Good documentation speeds up funding, keeps crews paid, and avoids stalling your flip.

Bonus: Documentation Helps with Selling, Too

You’re not just documenting for your lender—you’re creating marketing materials for your future buyer.

Agents love before-and-after shots because:

  • They show craftsmanship
  • They boost listing credibility
  • They give buyers confidence in the renovation

Plus, if you’re working toward a refinance or BRRRR strategy, these records will help appraisers and long-term lenders understand the value you've added.

What to Avoid

  • Don’t skip “before” photos—once demo starts, they’re gone forever
  • Don’t send screenshots or social media posts as evidence
  • Don’t mix phases—label your folders clearly by draw or room
  • Don’t assume “they’ll take my word for it”—lenders need proof to protect their capital

Silverton Capital: Draws Built for Real-World Projects

We understand the pace and pressure of rehab projects in Dallas, Tarrant, and Collin counties—because we fund them every day.

At Silverton Capital:

  • Our draw process is simple
  • Our team responds fast
  • We help you stay on track with transparent expectations

Whether you’re flipping your first house or managing multiple projects, we work with you to make funding seamless and documentation straightforward.

Apply now to get started with a lender who respects your hustle and keeps your project funded.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a pro photographer or a spreadsheet wizard—but you do need to document your flip like it’s a business (because it is). The right photos, receipts, and updates make your lender more confident—and your project more profitable.

So before you swing that first hammer, grab your phone and take the shot. You’ll be glad you did.

Need a draw-friendly rehab lender you can count on?


Apply with Silverton Capital for fast, transparent rehab loans in Dallas, Tarrant, and Collin counties.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal, financial, or investment advice. Please consult with a licensed professional before making financial decisions.

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