Construction Loan Resources
Articles, planning guides and resources for buyers planning a custom home build or lot purchase.
Arizona Barndominium Planning: 12 Steps Before Ordering a Kit
A complete pre-order planning guide covering land, permits, engineering, budget, appraisal and financing for an Arizona barndominium build.
ViewConstruction Loan Reserve Requirements Explained
Understand how lenders calculate required reserves and how it affects your cash requirement.
ViewFixed Price vs Cost-Plus Contract
How the builder contract structure affects your construction loan, budget risk and lender review.
ViewBuild a Home in 5 Steps
The five stages of a construction loan from land selection through draw schedule and permanent financing.
View10 Tips for Construction Loan Approval
What lenders look for in a construction loan application and how to prepare before submitting.
ViewConstruction Planning Framework
Land, builder, plans, budget and financing — the five areas reviewed before a construction loan can be finalized.
ViewStart a Planning Review
A planning review covers your specific project — land, builder, contract, budget and financing together.
ViewDownloadable Construction Planning Forms
Use these guides and forms to prepare for your construction planning review. Completing them in advance helps identify project, budget, and material decisions before they become delays.
Construction Cost Breakdown
A line-item cost breakdown template covering hard construction costs, site work, permits, allowances, and contingency. Use this to build a complete project budget.
Download Cost BreakdownDescription of Materials
The standard materials specification form used in construction lending. Documents finishes, fixtures, and materials — required by most lenders as part of the appraisal package.
Download Materials FormBarndominium Build Guide
A practical planning guide for organizing the lot, builder, plans, materials, appraisal, and construction-financing questions unique to a barndominium project.
Download Build GuideConstruction Loan Handbook
A practical handbook covering the lot, builder, plans, budget, draw process, and financing decisions involved in a custom home project.
View Handbook PageReady to Review Your Construction Project?
A planning review covers land, builder, contract, budget and financing before you commit.
Start a Planning Review