Qualification guide
Wondering whether you qualify for a ground up 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.
Ground up construction loans in California, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Idaho for investors, builders, and developers. Finance land acquisition and vertical construction together with loan-to-cost and ARV based leverage, interest-only payments during the build, inspected draws, and construction-to-permanent exits. CDL Mortgage structures the whole project.
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 ground up 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
Financing for building on vacant land — it can cover lot acquisition plus the full vertical construction budget. Funds are advanced in inspected draws against the builder\u2019s schedule of values, with interest only on the drawn balance.
Commonly 15–25% of total project cost. If you already own the lot free and clear, its equity often counts toward your required contribution and can reduce cash to close substantially.
Experience helps and drives your leverage. Newer builders can qualify with a licensed, insured, experienced general contractor, a realistic budget, and more equity in the deal.
You submit a draw request as each stage completes. An inspector verifies the work, then funds are released — typically within a few business days — so the build never stalls waiting on money.
Yes. A single facility can fund the lot purchase and the build, and can be structured to roll into a permanent mortgage or an investor rental loan at completion.
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.