Getting a Construction Loan Vs A Mortgage Loan – Learn the Differences

Unless you plan to pay cash for your home building project, you will need to acquire financing for the construction and a mortgage for the noticeable balance when its finished. While you may have qualified for a mortgage loan before, getting a construction loan for your home building project can be a little challenging. 

Although its certainly possible to get a construction loan as an owner-builder, lenders may shy away from you at first, thinking that you arent qualified to manager such an undertaking. consequently, its important to be very prepared and to show yourself in a capable, competent light when presenting your case to the lender. For example, dont say, Ive never really done this before, but Im willing to give it a stab. Instead, be positive, prepared and specialized. Never lie, but anticipate questions and concerns and have answers ready.

There are several types of construction loans to choose from, but one of the most popular for people building their own home is a construction loan that converts to a long-lasting loan once the home is complete.  Although there are no standard specifications for this kind loan, as a guideline, most only require that you pay closing costs once. That saves some money and makes the time of action easier.  You dont have to go by the qualification course of action twice.   The downside is that it is next to impossible to lock-in a long-lasting mortgage rate, since you wont be closing the loan for six months to one year.

No matter what kind construction loan you choose, you will likely be required to pay monthly interest on the construction loan amount during the construction phase. The amount you owe each month will depend on the amount you have drawn out of the loan, not the overall amount that you are allowed to borrow. If you are approved for a construction loan of $100,000 but you have only drawn $50,000 then your interest payment will based on $50,000. Typically construction loans are standard interest (not amortized) and are one or two percent over the chief rate, or at any rate you have negotiated with your lender. 

Qualifying for a construction goes beyond the income and credit qualification requirements for a standard mortgage loan.  Bankers or lenders will want to know how you plan to tackle your project and that you are capable of building a home yourself. A thorough presentation to the bank will be in order. The following is an outline of what you will need to apply for a construction loan:

all the same financial information you would provide to get a standard mortgage loan (financial statements, income verification, credit report, etc.) a set of your plans (they may ask for several copies) detailed specifications (the materials and finishes you plan to use) an calculate of the cost an appraisal (ordered by the lending institution.  The appraiser will use the plans, specifications and lot value to determine the amount) your lot information (whether you own it, etc.) contractor bids (not necessarily required, but might be if this is your first project)

You might also consider providing any other documentation you can think of that will help indicate your ability and preparedness to complete your project. The bank is essentially becomes a silent partner in your project and will be concerned about the home being properly built.  Demonstrating your ability to manager the project is meaningful here.