Building A New House On Your Existing Lot

Obtaining a construction loan to build a home on land you already own is a common scenario in the homebuilding process. This approach allows you to leverage your existing land equity to finance the construction of your new home.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about it:

  1. Evaluate Your Land: Begin by assessing the suitability of your land for construction. Check for any zoning restrictions, environmental regulations, or other factors that might affect your ability to build on the land.

  2. Design Your Home: Develop a detailed plan for your new home, including architectural drawings, blueprints, and a budget. You’ll need these documents when applying for a construction loan.

  3. Estimate Construction Costs: Get accurate estimates from contractors or builders for the cost of construction. This should include materials, labor, permits, and any other associated expenses.

  4. Choose a Lender: Choose a lender who specializes in construction loans. You can approach traditional banks, credit unions, mainly local community banks.  Ask about interest rates, terms, and fees to find the best option for your needs.

  5. Loan Application: Prepare your loan application, including your credit history, income, and financial information. You’ll also need to provide your detailed construction plans and cost estimates.

  6. Appraisal: The lender will typically conduct an appraisal to determine the current value of your land and the projected value of the completed home. This helps establish the loan amount they are willing to offer.

  7. Loan Approval: Once your loan application is approved, you’ll receive a construction to permanent loan. This is a loan that covers the construction period where payments are interest-only based on the draws disbursed.  This loan also includes a permanent loan option secured at the beginning of the project.

  8. Construction Begins: With the construction loan secured, the contractor can begin to take draws disbursements based on work completed according to the draw schedule.

  9. Loan Disbursements: The lender will disburse funds periodically during construction, typically after specific project milestones are reached. This ensures that the funds are used for the intended purpose and as construction progresses.

  10. Convert to a Mortgage: Once construction is complete, the loan will convert to permanent financing automatically.  This process, known as “construction-to-permanent” financing, involves a final inspection.  You will also have other permanent loan options that can be considered and there is no penalty to change the permanent loan if it makes financial sense.

  11. Make Permanent Payments: Start making regular mortgage payments on the loan.

  12. Enjoy Your New Home: Once everything is in place and your mortgage is set, you can move into your new home and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Remember that the process of building a home via a construction loan on your land can be complex, and it’s crucial to work closely with professionals such as architects, contractors, and construction lending specialist to navigate each step successfully. Additionally, thorough planning and budgeting are essential to avoid unexpected financial challenges during the construction process.