Colorado Zaxby's Refinance: 2026 Cash-Out Guide


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Why Your Zaxby's Tenant is a Goldmine for Refinancing

When it comes to Colorado commercial refinance opportunities, few investments shine brighter than a Zaxby's NNN lease property. This Southern-based chicken chain has established itself as a creditworthy tenant that lenders actively pursue, making your Zaxby's investment a potential goldmine for refinancing strategies.

The Power of Credit Tenant Financing

A credit tenant loan CO arrangement with Zaxby's offers unique advantages that traditional commercial properties simply cannot match. Unlike typical restaurant investments, Zaxby's operates under a proven business model with over 900 locations nationwide and consistent same-store sales growth. This stability translates directly into favorable lending terms for property owners seeking refinancing opportunities.

Lenders view Zaxby's as an institutional-grade tenant due to their strong financial performance and corporate backing. The company's ability to maintain operations even during economic downturns—as demonstrated during the 2020 pandemic—has solidified their reputation among commercial real estate financiers. This creditworthiness becomes your leverage when negotiating cash-out refinance Colorado terms.

Triple Net Lease Advantages

The Zaxby's NNN lease structure creates an ideal scenario for refinancing because it shifts operational responsibilities to the tenant while providing predictable income streams. Under this arrangement, Zaxby's assumes responsibility for property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs, leaving you with a pure income investment that appeals to conservative lenders.

This lease structure particularly benefits Colorado investors because it eliminates the management headaches associated with traditional commercial properties. Triple net lease properties typically command higher loan-to-value ratios and more competitive interest rates, maximizing your cash-out potential during refinancing.

Market Performance and Expansion Strategy

Zaxby's aggressive expansion into Colorado markets has created additional value for existing property owners. The brand's strategic focus on secondary and tertiary markets aligns perfectly with Colorado's diverse metropolitan areas, from Denver suburbs to growing cities like Fort Collins and Colorado Springs.

Recent market analysis shows that Zaxby's real estate financing deals consistently outperform comparable restaurant properties in terms of cap rates and appreciation. The company's commitment to 15-20 year initial lease terms with built-in rent escalations provides the long-term stability that commercial lenders require for favorable refinancing terms.

Timing Your Refinance Strategy

The current interest rate environment presents a unique window for Zaxby's property owners to execute strategic refinancing. As institutional investors increasingly target net lease properties, competition for quality Zaxby's locations has intensified, driving up property values and creating optimal conditions for cash-out refinancing.

For Colorado investors, understanding the nuances of Colorado commercial refinance regulations and market conditions is crucial. Working with specialized lenders who understand the unique aspects of restaurant real estate financing can unlock additional value from your Zaxby's investment.

When evaluating your refinancing options, consider the broader portfolio benefits that Zaxby's properties provide. These investments often serve as stabilizing assets within larger commercial real estate portfolios, enabling more aggressive financing strategies across your entire investment portfolio. For comprehensive guidance on structuring your commercial refinancing strategy, explore our commercial lending solutions designed specifically for credit tenant properties like your Zaxby's investment.


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Best Loan Options for a Colorado Credit Tenant Property

When considering a Colorado commercial refinance for your Zaxby's location, understanding the available loan options is crucial for maximizing your investment potential. Credit tenant properties, particularly those with established franchises like Zaxby's, offer unique financing opportunities that can significantly enhance your portfolio's performance.

Credit Tenant Lease (CTL) Financing

For investors holding a Zaxby's NNN lease property in Colorado, Credit Tenant Lease financing represents one of the most attractive options available. CTL loans are specifically designed for properties leased to creditworthy tenants with strong financial profiles. Zaxby's, as an established quick-service restaurant chain with solid corporate backing, typically qualifies for these favorable loan terms.

CTL financing offers several advantages including lower interest rates, higher loan-to-value ratios (often up to 75-80%), and longer amortization periods. These loans are underwritten primarily on the tenant's credit strength rather than the borrower's financial profile, making them particularly attractive for real estate investors seeking to leverage their Zaxby's real estate financing opportunities.

SBA 504 Loans for Restaurant Properties

The SBA 504 loan program presents another excellent option for Colorado investors looking to refinance their Zaxby's properties. This program allows borrowers to finance up to 90% of the property value through a combination of conventional bank financing and SBA debentures.

For a cash-out refinance Colorado scenario, SBA 504 loans can provide access to equity while maintaining favorable long-term fixed rates. The program's below-market interest rates and extended repayment terms make it particularly suitable for restaurant properties with stable, long-term lease agreements like those typically found with Zaxby's locations.

CMBS and Conduit Loans

Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (CMBS) loans offer another viable path for credit tenant loan CO financing. These loans are particularly well-suited for properties with investment-grade tenants and long-term lease agreements. Zaxby's properties often qualify for CMBS financing due to the brand's market presence and the typically favorable lease terms associated with their locations.

CMBS loans typically offer competitive interest rates, non-recourse terms, and loan amounts ranging from $2 million to $50 million or more. For investors seeking to maximize their leverage while maintaining favorable terms, CMBS financing can be an excellent choice for Colorado Zaxby's refinancing projects.

Portfolio Lenders and Regional Banks

Regional banks and portfolio lenders in Colorado often provide more flexible underwriting criteria and faster closing times compared to national lenders. These institutions understand the local market dynamics and may offer more competitive terms for established restaurant properties with strong tenant profiles.

Portfolio lenders are particularly valuable when dealing with unique property characteristics or when seeking customized loan structures. For investors working with commercial real estate financing specialists, these relationships can prove invaluable in structuring optimal financing solutions.

Bridge and Interim Financing Options

In situations where immediate capital access is required, bridge loans can provide short-term financing while arranging permanent financing. The Federal Reserve's guidance on bridge financing highlights the importance of having clear exit strategies when utilizing these products.

Bridge loans are particularly useful when timing is critical, such as when acquiring additional properties or when existing loan terms are approaching maturity. These loans typically offer faster approval and funding timelines, making them ideal for active real estate investors looking to capitalize on market opportunities quickly.

Selecting the optimal loan structure for your Colorado Zaxby's refinance depends on your specific investment goals, timeline, and exit strategy. Working with experienced commercial finance professionals ensures you'll identify the most advantageous financing solution for your unique situation.


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The Underwriting Process for a Colorado Zaxby's Lease

When pursuing a Colorado commercial refinance for a Zaxby's restaurant property, understanding the underwriting process is crucial for investors seeking to maximize their returns through strategic financing. The underwriting evaluation for a Zaxby's NNN lease involves several critical components that lenders scrutinize to assess risk and determine loan terms.

Credit Tenant Analysis and Corporate Strength

The foundation of any successful credit tenant loan CO application begins with evaluating Zaxby's corporate financial stability. Lenders will conduct a comprehensive analysis of Zaxby's corporate credit rating, financial statements, and overall market performance. As a rapidly expanding chicken chain with over 900 locations across the Southeast and growing into new markets like Colorado, Zaxby's demonstrates strong tenant creditworthiness that appeals to commercial lenders.

Underwriters typically examine the parent company's debt-to-equity ratios, cash flow consistency, and expansion plans. For Zaxby's real estate financing, the corporate guarantee backing the lease obligations provides additional security that often translates into more favorable loan terms and higher loan-to-value ratios.

Lease Structure and Terms Evaluation

The triple net lease structure inherent in most Zaxby's locations significantly impacts the underwriting process for a cash-out refinance Colorado transaction. Lenders favor NNN leases because they transfer property operating expenses—including taxes, insurance, and maintenance—to the tenant, creating a more predictable income stream for property owners.

Key lease provisions that underwriters scrutinize include:

  • Remaining lease term and renewal options

  • Annual rent escalations and percentage rent clauses

  • Assignment and subletting restrictions

  • Tenant improvement allowances and maintenance responsibilities

For Colorado Zaxby's properties, lenders typically prefer leases with at least 10-15 years remaining to provide sufficient cash flow coverage for loan amortization periods.

Property Location and Market Analysis

Colorado's diverse commercial real estate markets require location-specific analysis during the underwriting process. Properties in high-traffic areas of Denver, Colorado Springs, or Boulder generally receive more favorable financing terms due to demographic strength and market stability. Underwriters evaluate factors such as average daily traffic counts, household income levels within a three-mile radius, and competition density.

The Colorado Department of Local Affairs population growth data often supports strong fundamentals for quick-service restaurant investments, particularly in suburban growth corridors where Zaxby's typically establishes locations.

Financial Documentation and Cash Flow Analysis

Successful Colorado commercial refinance applications require comprehensive financial documentation. For existing Zaxby's properties, underwriters analyze historical operating statements, rent rolls, and property tax assessments. The debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) remains a critical metric, with most lenders requiring a minimum 1.20x DSCR for approval.

Cash flow projections must account for potential vacancy periods, even with strong credit tenants like Zaxby's. Conservative underwriting typically applies a vacancy factor and management expense allocation, even for NNN lease properties.

Environmental and Physical Property Assessment

Restaurant properties require specialized attention during the underwriting process due to potential environmental concerns. Phase I Environmental Site Assessments are standard for Zaxby's real estate financing, examining historical land use and potential contamination risks associated with food service operations.

Physical property condition assessments evaluate kitchen equipment, HVAC systems, and compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. For investors considering commercial real estate opportunities, understanding these requirements is essential for successful project completion.

The underwriting timeline for Colorado Zaxby's refinancing typically ranges from 45-60 days, depending on property complexity and borrower responsiveness to documentation requests. Working with experienced commercial lenders who understand credit tenant financing can streamline this process and optimize loan terms for maximum investor benefit.


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Case Study: A Successful Denver Zaxby's Cash-Out Refinance

When Mark Thompson, a seasoned real estate investor, acquired a Zaxby's NNN lease property in Denver's bustling Highlands neighborhood in 2019, he recognized the untapped potential of this prime commercial asset. Fast-forward to 2024, and Thompson's strategic approach to Colorado commercial refinance has become a textbook example of how savvy investors can leverage appreciation and favorable market conditions to maximize their portfolio growth.

The Initial Investment and Market Positioning

Thompson's original acquisition involved a 4,200-square-foot Zaxby's restaurant on a 1.2-acre lot, purchased for $2.8 million with a traditional commercial loan. The property featured a triple net lease structure with Zaxby's corporate as the tenant, providing 15 years remaining on the initial lease term with built-in rent escalations.

The credit tenant loan CO structure made this investment particularly attractive, as Zaxby's strong corporate credit rating (backed by their parent company) provided stable, predictable cash flows. This credit strength would later prove crucial in securing favorable refinancing terms.

Market Appreciation and Refinancing Opportunity

By early 2024, Denver's commercial real estate market had experienced significant appreciation, particularly in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector. The property's appraised value had increased to $4.2 million, representing a 50% appreciation over five years. This substantial equity buildup created an ideal opportunity for a strategic cash-out refinance Colorado transaction.

Thompson partnered with Jaken Finance Group to explore his refinancing options. The team's expertise in NNN lease financing proved invaluable in structuring a deal that would maximize his cash-out proceeds while maintaining favorable loan terms.

The Refinancing Structure and Execution

The successful refinancing transaction involved several key components that showcase best practices for Zaxby's real estate financing:

Loan-to-Value Optimization: Jaken Finance Group secured financing at 75% LTV based on the new appraised value, allowing Thompson to extract $3.15 million in total financing. After paying off the existing $1.9 million balance, he received $1.25 million in cash proceeds.

Rate and Term Benefits: The new loan featured a 4.75% fixed rate for the first five years, compared to his original 6.25% rate. This rate reduction, combined with a 25-year amortization schedule, actually decreased his monthly payments despite the higher loan amount.

Corporate Credit Leverage: The strong credit profile of Zaxby's enabled non-recourse financing terms, protecting Thompson's personal assets while maintaining competitive pricing typically reserved for institutional-grade net lease investments.

Strategic Capital Deployment and Results

Thompson strategically deployed his $1.25 million cash-out proceeds to acquire two additional NNN properties in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins, effectively tripling his portfolio size. This 1031-like expansion strategy, enabled by the refinancing, demonstrates the power of leveraging appreciated assets to scale commercial real estate portfolios.

The case study results speak for themselves:

  • 50% equity extraction while maintaining ownership of the original asset

  • Reduced debt service by $485 per month despite higher loan amount

  • Portfolio expansion from one to three properties within 90 days

  • Improved overall portfolio diversification across multiple Colorado markets

This successful Denver Zaxby's refinancing exemplifies how experienced commercial real estate investors can work with specialized lenders like Jaken Finance Group to unlock hidden value in their NNN lease portfolios. The combination of market appreciation, corporate credit strength, and strategic financing positioned Thompson for continued growth in Colorado's dynamic commercial real estate landscape.


Apply for a Credit Tenant Refinance Today!