The Things You Need To Know Before You Get A Construction Loan
Monday, December 12th, 2011
Some builders, buyers, and property owners seek funds for construction. They may want to complete a project and shop around for financing, trying to figure out how it works. A second category is formed by persons who have done some research and have specific questions in need of an answer. Those who have found sources of financing make another category. In either case, there are different factors to take into consideration. These are timing and management of cash flow which should be factored in before applying for financing. Every construction project has impact on the cash flow of service providers, suppliers, builders, borrowers, and even lending institutions. It is a good idea to outline accurate budgets, completion stages, payment timelines, and disbursement requirements.
Similar to other types of financing, construction loans have to be secured by some asset. In case the equity in the underlying property is insufficient to cover the project’s first draw, the borrower can take out a second mortgage. With construction advancing, the value of the property will grow and at specified completion stages, more funding may be advanced against the property’s increased value.
The milestones or points of completion are set at the beginning of the construction project, reflecting the timeframe within which the building’s fair value will increase. If we speak of a residential property, the completion of the foundation and basement will be typically considered the first milestone. The enclosure of the roof and walls and the framing of the building will be the next milestone
With some lenders, construction loans have the following features. First, money is available when required, and the principal amount is not due until the construction project is complete. This takes about eighteen months from the start of the construction project. Upon project completion, there is an option to convert the loan into another fixed rate product. Interest that was accrued during the different construction phases may be capitalized into the loan amount.
One important factor is the benefits of taking out a construction loan. With funding available when required, borrowers save on interest. Moreover, cash flow management is easier over the loan’s term. This makes it easier to meet unexpected expenses. Borrowers get a good deal because of the option to convert the loan into another fixed loan product as well as the competitive interest rates.
There are various types of construction loans. Funds may be offered as a stand alone bridge loan or in the form of a combination loan. The combination loan starts out as a construction loan, then rolling in into a long term mortgage loan, which is pre-approved.
Finally, it should be noted that as the complexity and size of the project increase, so do the lending requirements of financial institutions.
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