The Lowdown on Construction Loans...

The Lowdown on Construction Loans...

Finance Your New Home Build With Flexible Draw-Based Funding

Construction loans provide financing to build a new home from the ground up. Unlike traditional mortgages that disburse funds at closing, construction loans release money in stages as your home is built. You typically pay interest only on the amount disbursed during construction, then convert to a permanent mortgage once the home is complete.

Whether you’re building your dream primary residence or a custom property, construction financing makes it possible to create a home exactly to your specifications. Work with a builder of your choice on land you own or are purchasing, and watch your vision become reality.

We’re here to make the construction loan process easier, with tools and expertise to guide you along the way, starting with our no-cost Construction Loan Qualifier.

Key Benefits:

  • Build your dream home customized to your exact preferences
  • Interest-only payments during construction phase lower initial costs
  • Single-close construction-to-permanent loans save time and money
  • Lock your permanent mortgage rate at initial closing

The Construction Loan Process

Here’s how our construction loan process works:

  1. Secure land, select a licensed builder, and develop detailed construction plans with itemized budget
  2. Submit your application with financial documents, construction plans, builder information, and project timeline
  3. Complete appraisal based on projected value of finished home and lender underwriting review
  4. Close on your construction loan and begin building with funds released according to draw schedule

Do I Qualify?

Construction loans typically require a credit score of 680 or higher, down payment of 20-25% of total project cost, and debt-to-income ratio of 43% or lower. You’ll need complete architectural plans, a licensed and insured builder with proven experience, an itemized construction budget, and realistic project timeline. All loans are subject to credit approval.

Not sure if you qualify? Our loan officers can review your construction plans and help you understand which construction financing options may be available to you.

Construction Loan Qualifier

Common Questions About Construction Loans

Some lenders offer owner-builder construction loans, but requirements are strict. You’ll need to demonstrate construction experience, qualifications, and project management capability. Most borrowers work with licensed contractors for smoother approval and project completion.

You’re responsible for costs exceeding your loan amount. This is why including a 10-20% contingency budget is important. If costs exceed your budget significantly, you may need to reduce the scope or secure additional financing from your own funds.

Construction loans release funds in stages called draws as work is completed. Your lender inspects progress at each stage before releasing the next payment. Common draw stages include foundation, framing, mechanicals, drywall, finishes, and final completion with certificate of occupancy.

Not necessarily. Some construction loans include land purchase, while others require you to own the land outright before applying. Having equity in the land strengthens your application and may improve your terms.

A construction-to-permanent loan combines construction financing and permanent mortgage into one loan with a single closing. This saves time, money, and closing costs compared to separate construction-only and permanent loans requiring two closings.

From application to closing typically takes 4-6 weeks. The construction phase usually lasts 6-12 months depending on the project size and complexity. Total timeline from initial planning to completed home averages 14-24 months.

Your Construction Loan Could Be
Fully Funded 30 Days From Now

  • Expert Guidance

    Expert Guidance

  • Competitive Rates

    Competitive
    Rates

  • Builder Flexibility

    Builder
    Flexibility

  • Streamlined Process

    Streamlined
    Process

  • Single-Close Option

    Single-Close
    Option

  • Rate Protection

    Rate
    Protection

Construction loans subject to credit approval. Rates, program terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice. Detailed construction plans, builder information, and itemized budgets required. Builder must be licensed and insured. Property appraisal based on completed value. Not all applicants will qualify. Construction must be completed within loan term. Minimum credit score, down payment, and reserve requirements apply. This is not a commitment to lend.

Build Your Dream Home From the Ground Up

Get a no-cost quote on construction financing and start building your custom home.

I Want My No-Cost Construction Loan Quote