Qualification guide
Wondering whether you qualify for a construction loan? Below is what lenders actually look at — and remember that guidelines are a starting point, not a wall. As a broker, CDL Mortgage works with lenders whose overlays differ, so a “no” from one bank is often a “yes” somewhere else.
Construction and construction-to-permanent financing in California, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Idaho. Fund your lot, build, and permanent mortgage in one streamlined package — CDL Mortgage guides you from blueprint to keys.
Credit score — each program has a minimum score, and stronger credit improves both approval odds and pricing.
Income & employment — lenders verify stable, documentable income; self-employed borrowers have flexible-doc options.
Down payment / equity — requirements vary by program, from 0% down (VA, USDA) up to 20–25% for investor loans.
Debt-to-income ratio — your total monthly debts vs. gross income; most programs want this under roughly 43–50%.
Property standards — the home must meet the construction loan program’s appraisal and condition guidelines.
Reserves — some programs want a few months of payments in savings after closing, especially for larger loans.
Requirements
General guidelines — final qualification depends on the lender, property, and your full financial profile.
Questions
Funds are disbursed in draws as construction milestones are completed, with interest-only payments on the drawn balance during the build. When the home is finished, the loan converts to (or is replaced by) a permanent mortgage.
A single-close loan that covers the build and automatically converts to your permanent mortgage when construction finishes — one application, one closing, one set of fees.
Typically 10-20% of the total project cost (land plus build). If you already own your lot, its equity can often count toward the down payment.
Most programs require a licensed, insured general contractor with a track record. Some owner-builder options exist for qualified borrowers — ask us about the requirements.
About Us
CDL Mortgage Services Inc. is an independent, full-service mortgage company. Instead of pushing one bank’s products, we shop multiple wholesale lenders to secure the best loan at the best rate for every borrower.
Purchase, refinance, and home equity — all under one roof, focused on the best loans at the best rates.
Based at 6524 Lonetree Blvd, Rocklin, CA 95765 and licensed in California, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Oklahoma & Idaho.
Every file is handled start-to-finish by a licensed loan officer who knows your name and your goals.
Fully licensed and regulated, with award-winning lender partnerships and 35+ years serving borrowers.