One of the most important things to think about before beginning a construction project is how you will pay for it. Construction loans are a common choice among the available alternatives. You should know your credit score’s influence on your approval and terms of a construction loan before applying for one. In this article, we’ll discuss the ins and outs of construction loan credit scores and the information you should have at your disposal before applying.
What is a Construction Loan?
If you need money to construct a building or renovate an existing one, you may want to look into getting a construction loan. Unlike regular mortgages, construction loans have a more gradual funding schedule, with the lender checking in at various points to see how things are going before committing more money.
A construction loan is a loan used to finance the development of a property, including the acquisition of land, the purchase of construction materials, the payment of construction workers, and the acquisition of necessary permits.
How Does a Construction Loan Work?
If you need money to construct a building or renovate an existing one, you may want to look into getting a construction loan. Unlike regular mortgages, construction loans have a more gradual funding schedule, with the lender checking in at various points to see how things are going before committing more money.
A construction loan is a type of loan used specifically for the purpose of constructing a building or other structure..
The Draw Process
Lenders typically make multiple payments, or “draws,” during the construction phase. Draws are payments made to a contractor or builder based on a predetermined schedule or a percentage of the total project cost.
Usually, the lender will send an inspector to the job site before releasing the funds to ensure that everything was done according to the approved plans and specifications.
Interest-Only Payments
Borrowers typically make only interest payments on their loans during the construction phase. As a result, the borrower’s financial burden is lessened and the monthly payment amount is reduced while the project is being worked on.
Conversion to a Permanent Loan
When building is done, the borrower must refinance the construction loan into a permanent loan. The term “refinancing” describes the procedure typically used for this purpose. Before agreeing to a new loan term, the lender will want to see proof of the borrower’s financial stability, and they’ll also want to see an assessment of the property’s value.
Types of Construction Loans
There are several types of construction loans available to borrowers, each designed to meet specific needs and circumstances. Here are some of the most common types of construction loans:
Construction-to-Permanent Loans
Borrowers can choose from a variety of construction loan options, each tailored to meet a unique set of requirements. Some of the most common varieties of building loans are as follows:
Stand-Alone Construction Loans
Independent construction loans are made specifically for the building of a structure. When building is done, the construction loan must be repaid with a new, permanent loan.
Renovation Loans
Home improvement loans, or “renovation loans,” are a special kind of mortgage that can be used to pay for major structural changes to an already-existing home. This loan is very similar to a construction loan, but it’s meant to be used for remodelling an already existing structure..
Owner-Builder Construction Loans
Borrowers who intend to serve as their project’s general contractor or builder can benefit from applying for an owner-builder construction loan. The borrower is able to oversee and manage the construction process thanks to the fact that this loan covers both the land and the building costs..
What Are the Requirements for a Construction Loan?
Borrowers for construction loans must meet the same standards as those for any other type of loan. Some typical necessities for a building loan are as follows:
Good Credit
To be approved for a building loan, you need a high credit rating. Most lenders require a credit score of 680 or higher, though some may go lower with a larger down payment or additional supporting documents.
Down Payment
There is usually a down payment requirement of 20% to 25% on a construction loan. Lenders are grateful for the down payment because it demonstrates the borrower’s commitment to the project and lowers the lender’s risk.
Detailed Project Plans and Specifications
Lenders need comprehensive plans and specifications to gauge the project’s viability and the borrower’s ability to see it through to completion. Plans should include specifics about cost, duration, and completion.
Proof of Income and Assets
Income requirements and asset documentation is standard procedure for any loan lender. Tax returns, bank statements, and investment records are typical examples of this type of documentation.
Project and Construction Budget Approval
Lenders typically consider a borrower’s project and construction budget when deciding whether or not to grant a construction loan.
Everything that will be required for the project, such as supplies, labour, and overhead, should be budgeted for. The lender will evaluate the project’s viability based on the budget and the borrower’s ability to repay the loan.
Builder or General Contractor Approval
Most construction lenders mandate that borrowers hire a licenced builder or general contractor for the project. The builder or contractor must have a track record of successfully completing projects on time and on budget. Documentation such as the builder’s or contractor’s licence, insurance, and references may be required by lenders.
Construction Experience
Some lenders require borrowers to have previous construction experience, either as a builder or a general contractor. This helps to ensure that the borrower has the necessary knowledge and skills to manage the construction process successfully.
Home Construction Loan Options for Bad Credit
If you have poor credit, it may be difficult to obtain a home construction loan. There are, however, some options available to you. Here are some of the most common bad credit home construction loan options.:
FHA 203(k) Loan
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) has a loan programme called the 203(k) loan that allows you to finance both the purchase and renovation of a home. Borrowers with credit scores as low as 580 are eligible for this programme, though those with lower credit scores may be required to make a larger down payment.
You can use a mortgage to pay for the building of your new house with an FHA construction loan. FHA construction loans are based on the anticipated value of the home once building is finished, as opposed to conventional mortgages, which are based on the completed value of the home.
Home Equity Loan
If you own your home and have equity in it, you may be able to get a home equity loan to fund your construction project. Because home equity loans are secured by the value of your home, lenders may be more willing to work with bad credit borrowers.
Hard Money Loan
A hard money loan is a short-term loan that is secured by the value of the property. These loans are typically easier to qualify for than traditional loans, but they often come with higher interest rates and fees.
Co-Signer
A co-signer on a construction loan is another option for borrowers with poor credit. A good credit co-signer can help the borrower’s chances of approval and may also result in a lower interest rate.
Just Funded Mortgage: Your Partner for Construction Loans
At Just Funded Mortgage, we are committed to helping you secure a construction loan that meets your unique needs. We offer a range of loan options, including FHA 203(k) loans, home equity loans, and hard money loans, as well as a co-signer program to help you qualify for a loan even if you have bad credit. Our experienced team will guide you through every step of the process, from pre-approval to project completion. We take a personalized approach to each client, tailoring our services to ensure your satisfaction. Let us help you make your dream home a reality. Contact us today to learn more.
