Loan Draw Schedules Explained: How Funds Are Released in Rehab Projects

August 12, 2025

Short answer:

A loan draw schedule breaks up your rehab loan into installments that are released as work is completed. It keeps your project funded and your lender protected—while helping you stay on budget and on schedule.

If you're using a hard money loan to finance a fix-and-flip or major renovation, understanding how draw schedules work is essential. Let's walk through the process, step-by-step.

Why Hard Money Rehab Loans Use Draw Schedules

When you get a hard money loan for a rehab project, you typically don’t receive all the funds upfront—especially for the renovation portion.

Instead, the loan is structured in two parts:

  • Acquisition funds: Released at closing to purchase the property
  • Rehab funds: Released in draws as the renovation progresses

This structure protects both the lender and the borrower. The lender ensures that work is actually getting done before releasing money, and the borrower avoids blowing through the entire rehab budget too early.

What Is a Loan Draw Schedule?

A draw schedule is a pre-agreed plan that outlines how and when rehab funds will be released.

Think of it like a renovation roadmap tied to funding. As each phase of the project is completed, you request a “draw” to reimburse costs or pay contractors for the next stage.

For example, a simple draw schedule might look like this:

Draw Phase Work Completed % of Funds Released
Draw 1 Demo & Clean Out 10%
Draw 2 Plumbing, Electrical Rough-In 20%
Draw 3 Drywall, Insulation, HVAC 20%
Draw 4 Kitchen & Bath Install 25%
Draw 5 (Final) Paint, Flooring, Final Touches 25%

Each draw requires proof of progress—often via photos, contractor invoices, or a site inspection.

How the Rehab Draw Process Works

Here’s a basic step-by-step breakdown of how it works with a lender like Silverton Capital:

🔹 Step 1: Rehab Budget Is Submitted and Approved

Before closing, you'll provide a detailed Scope of Work that outlines:

  • What you plan to renovate
  • Estimated cost for each line item
  • Total rehab budget

Silverton uses this to create your draw schedule.

🔹 Step 2: Purchase Closes, Rehab Funds Held in Escrow

You’ll close on the property, and only the acquisition portion of the loan is funded. The rehab funds are held in escrow and released in stages.

🔹 Step 3: You Start the Work

Once you begin renovation, you fund the initial phase out of pocket. This shows the lender you’re committed and capable of starting the job.

🔹 Step 4: You Request a Draw

As soon as you complete a phase of work:

  • Submit a draw request
  • Include receipts, photos, or contractor invoices
  • Sometimes a quick inspection may be scheduled


🔹 Step 5: Funds Are Released

Once the draw is approved, funds are wired to you or directly to your contractor—usually within a few days.

You move on to the next phase of work, and the process repeats until the project is complete.

Why This System Works (For Everyone)

Draw schedules are more than just funding logistics—they’re an essential project management tool.

For Investors:

  • Keeps you disciplined with your rehab budget
  • Prevents overspending too early in the project
  • Helps you track progress and stay accountable


For Lenders:

  • Reduces risk by confirming work is actually getting done
  • Helps prevent fraud or fund misuse
  • Encourages strong investor communication


Silverton Capital works closely with borrowers in Dallas, Tarrant, and Collin counties to ensure draw schedules are smooth, timely, and realistic for the size of the project.

Tips for Managing Draws Like a Pro

  • Front-load small tasks you can afford to fund yourself (like demo or clean-out)
  • Keep receipts and before/after photos organized from day one
  • Schedule contractors carefully so you don’t run into bottlenecks before requesting your next draw
  • Communicate early and often with your lender if anything changes

Remember, the draw schedule is flexible within reason—but changes to the scope or delays should be shared early.

Ready to Renovate with a Real Partner?

At Silverton Capital, we don’t just fund deals—we help make them happen. Our team is experienced with renovation-heavy projects and offers simple, transparent draw schedules to keep your project moving.

If you're investing in Dallas, Tarrant, or Collin counties and need funding for your next rehab project, let’s talk.

Apply now to see what you qualify for.

Final Thoughts

A good draw schedule keeps your flip funded, your team moving, and your lender confident. It’s one of the most important tools in the rehab investor’s toolkit—and when done right, it makes the entire process smoother and more profitable.

Need a lender who understands how rehabs really work?

Apply with Silverton Capital for fast, flexible 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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