Step-by-step guide

How to Get A Construction Loan

Getting a construction loan is simpler than most people expect when you have the right team. Here’s the exact process CDL Mortgage walks every borrower through, from the first conversation to funding day.

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.

The Process

How to Get A Construction Loan

  1. 1

    Check your credit and budget

    Review your credit report and settle on a comfortable monthly payment before you apply. Build your dream home from the ground up. We’ll tell you exactly where you stand — and how to improve your pricing — in a free 15-minute call.

  2. 2

    Gather your documents

    Typical items include photo ID, recent pay stubs or income documentation, bank statements, and two years of tax returns where applicable. Your loan officer sends a short checklist tailored to your construction loan.

  3. 3

    Get pre-approved

    We verify your income, credit, and assets up front so your pre-approval actually holds up in underwriting. A solid pre-approval is the single biggest factor in a smooth, on-time closing.

  4. 4

    Shop your rate

    As an independent broker, CDL Mortgage shops multiple wholesale lenders on every construction loan — you see the best pricing across the market, not one bank’s rate sheet.

  5. 5

    Complete underwriting

    We submit your full file, order the appraisal when required, and clear any underwriter conditions for you. You’ll always know exactly where your loan stands.

  6. 6

    Close and fund

    Sign your final documents with a notary or at the title company, and your loan funds. Most files close in 21–30 days — often faster.

Questions

Construction Loans FAQs

How does a construction loan work?

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.

What is a construction-to-permanent loan?

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.

What down payment does a construction loan require?

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.

Do I need a licensed builder?

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

Who is CDL Mortgage?

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.

Full-Service Mortgage Company

Purchase, refinance, and home equity — all under one roof, focused on the best loans at the best rates.

Headquartered in Rocklin, CA

Based at 6524 Lonetree Blvd, Rocklin, CA 95765 and licensed in California, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Oklahoma & Idaho.

Real Loan Officers, Not Call Centers

Every file is handled start-to-finish by a licensed loan officer who knows your name and your goals.

NMLS #132263 · Equal Housing Lender

Fully licensed and regulated, with award-winning lender partnerships and 35+ years serving borrowers.