Steps to Financing Your Vacation Home

Dreaming of a cozy cabin in the mountains? A lake house for weekend getaways? Or maybe a beachfront bungalow where your family can make memories for years to come? Financing a vacation home is more attainable than you might think—and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

At Willamette Valley Bank, we specialize in helping buyers turn their second-home dreams into reality. Whether your ideal escape is tucked into the woods of Oregon or sitting under the sun in another state entirely, we can finance vacation homes nationwide. That’s right—your future vacation home can be anywhere in the U.S., and we’ll still be your trusted lending partner.

Before diving into the financial side, it’s important to think about how you’ll use the home. Will it be just for you and your family, or will you rent it out occasionally? Lenders treat personal-use second homes differently from investment properties, and this distinction affects your loan options and approval requirements.

Purchasing a second home typically requires a larger down payment—often 10–20%—and a strong credit profile. You’ll also need to show that you can comfortably afford payments on both your primary residence and the new vacation property. Every situation is unique, which is why it helps to work with a lender who understands your goals and can offer tailored advice.

Willamette Valley Bank offers several financing options to meet your needs. A traditional second home mortgage is designed for buyers who plan to use the property for personal enjoyment rather than as a rental. These loans often offer competitive rates and flexible terms. If you’ve built up equity in your current home, a cash-out refinance may be another way to fund your second home purchase—allowing you to use that equity as a down payment or cover the purchase outright.

While we’re proudly rooted in the Pacific Northwest, our lending capabilities extend nationwide. So whether you’re eyeing a ski cabin in Colorado, a beach house in Florida, or a peaceful lake retreat in Michigan, our experienced team can guide you through the process with the same personal care and expertise we offer right here at home.

If you’re ready to take the next step—or just want to explore what’s possible—we’re here to help. Let’s talk about your dream vacation home—wherever it may be.

Willamette Valley Bank. Local lending you can trust—across the country.