The Construction Loan Process
The Construction Loan Process involves everything leading up to the closing and start of construction on your new home. Once you are approved by your lender and your builder is registered, steps need to be taken and documents need to be provided in order to make it to closing.
Drawing Plans and Specifications Are Required
A clear set of architectural drawings with floor plans, showing all dimensions and outside elevations, as well as drawings of the exterior needs to be provided in the final plans and specifications. The contractor will have to provide further details regarding the type of materials which will go into the construction of the home; wood shingle or lightweight tile roofing; brick or stone exterior.
You'll Need an Appraisal Report
The final plans are important to understand the cost of building the home, but it is necessary for the appraisal as well. Just like any other mortgage, lenders need to know the value of your home in order to calculate its Loan-to-Value ratio. But appraising a home that has not been built is a little trickier. That's why professional appraisers need detailed plans and specifications, as well as the total budget for the project to determine its value subject to completion.
The Construction Contract Defines Responsibilities
You and your builder will draw up a Construction Contract. This agreement between both parties outlines the planned construction project, the agreed upon cost of building, and the project's timeframe. The Construction Contract must be fully turnkey, meaning the builder must be responsible for all aspects and the hiring of any and all subcontractors.
Cost Breakdown and Draw Schedule
A cost breakdown needs to be provided by your builder, including all costs going into the construction of your new home, with the total matching that on the Construction Contract. Your lender will usually provide the cost breakdown form to be completed, and have specific guidelines for how draws for the builder are determined and disbursed. Some lenders utilize a line-item percentage of completion method for determining draws while others may use a project percentage of completion method. Typically, funds are disbursed on the basis of work completed.
Do you know what's on your credit report?
Learn what your score means.
March 4, 2026FHA down payments are 3.5% up to the maximum FHA lending limit for your county and VA down payments can be as low as $0 for eligible veterans available up to the maximum amount your debt-to-income ratio per VA will allow – there are no maximum loan amounts as per VA guidelines.
January 5, 2026With FHA and VA One-Time Close Construction Loans, you can roll your land purchase, construction costs, and permanent mortgage into one simple loan—with one closing, one set of fees, and a stress-free process from start to finish.
January 1, 2026Are you unsure if a One-Time Close construction loan is the right choice in 2026? Building is better than buying for some, and if you feel that describes you, there are some steps to take when looking for the right VA or FHA single-close lender, especially if you are considering a conventional version of the loan. Comparison shop, and know your options before you commit to a specific lender.
