Construction Loans in Texas
Building your own home is one of the most rewarding paths to homeownership — but it requires the right financing. Construction loans are designed to fund the cost of land, building materials, labor, and everything needed to turn your plans into a completed home.
I offer several types of construction financing, including construction-to-permanent loans and stand-alone construction loans, giving Texas buyers flexibility depending on their builder, budget, and long-term plans.
What Is a Construction Loan?
A construction loan is a short-term loan that finances the building of a new home. Unlike a traditional mortgage, which is based on the completed value of a property, construction loans distribute funds in “draws” as work is completed.
Once construction is finished, the loan either:
- Converts into a long-term mortgage (One-Time Close)
- Is refinanced into a permanent loan
I’ll help you determine the best approach based on your builder, credit, and long-term financial goals.
Types of Construction Loans Available
1. Construction-to-Permanent (One-Time Close)
- One loan, one closing — reduces fees
- Rate can be locked before construction begins
- Converts automatically into a 15- or 30-year mortgage
- Easier for budgeting and long-term planning
2. Stand-Alone Construction Loan
- Short-term loan for building the home
- Gives flexibility to refinance later into the best rate available
- Ideal if you plan to shop lenders after construction
3. Lot + Construction Combination Loans
- Finance the land purchase and the construction in one package
- Helpful for buyers who haven’t bought the lot yet
4. Renovation & Build-On-Your-Lot Loans
- Great for major remodels, additions, or rebuilding on existing land
- Funds improvements based on “after-improved value”
Construction Loan Requirements
Construction financing requires a few more steps than a standard mortgage, but I will guide you through every one of them.
Credit Requirements
- Generally 680+ credit score is recommended
- Stronger credit improves rates and down payment options
Down Payment
- Typically 5%–20% depending on the loan type
- Land equity can count toward your down payment
Builder Approval
- Builder must be licensed and approved by the lender
- Owner-builder programs may be available case-by-case
Documentation Required
- Architectural plans & specifications
- Budget / cost breakdown
- Builder contract
- Proof of land ownership (or executed contract)
How Construction Loans Work
A construction loan releases funds in stages as work is completed:
- Land purchase (if needed)
- Site prep & foundation
- Framing
- Mechanical systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing)
- Interior finishes
- Final inspection
Each draw is inspected by the lender or a third party to ensure the work is complete before releasing the next portion of funds.
Construction Loan Advantages
- Build your dream home exactly the way you want it
- Lock in rates early with one-time-close options
- Use land equity toward down payment
- Interest-only payments during construction
- Finance the entire project under one loan
Construction Loan Considerations
- More documentation required than standard mortgages
- Must work with an approved builder
- Interest-only payments during construction period
- Appraisal based on “as-completed” value
I’ll guide you through every detail to ensure a smooth experience from blueprint to move-in.
Construction Loan vs. Buying an Existing Home
A construction loan may be better if you want to:
- Customize every feature of your home
- Choose your own land or build in a growing area
- Take advantage of builder incentives or upgrades
- Build a more energy-efficient home
Buying an existing home may be better if you want:
- A faster move-in timeline
- Lower upfront costs
- Less involvement in the building process
Not sure which is right for you? I’ll walk you through both scenarios.
Ready to Start Your Construction Loan Pre-Approval?
Building a home is a major milestone — and choosing the right financing is just as important as choosing the right builder. I’ll help you understand your options, structure your budget, and guide you from the first draft to the final walkthrough.
Apply Online:
https://wayne-wallace.com/apply
Schedule a Call:
Schedule a 30-Minute Consultation
Let’s turn your plans into the home you’ve always dreamed of.
