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Construction Loans

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You’ve got land? We’ve got a construction loan for you.

Are you already dreaming of the fun stuff that comes with that piece of land you saw – the kitchen counters, the bay windows, a cozy fireplace? With a Kennebunk Savings construction loan, you can roll the financing to purchase the land, construct a home and finance the permanent structure mortgage and keep looking ahead. Lock in a fixed interest rate even before you break ground, and enjoy interest-only payments during the initial phase of construction to easily manage expenses, like the costs of alternative housing while you build.

What are the benefits of construction loans?

  • Single loan closing at the beginning of construction can save you money and time
  • Finance up to 90% of the value of your primary residence
  • Gifted land can be used as equity
  • Interest-only payment options available for 6, 9, or 12 months
  • Principal and interest payments begin after the interest-only phase

For more information and frequently asked questions check out our resource on what is required for a construction loan.

Construction Loan Rates

When it comes to financing a new construction project, one of the most critical factors to consider is the interest rate on the construction loan. Construction loan rates can vary widely depending on a variety of factors such as the size of the loan and the length of the loan term.  Generally, construction loan rates are higher than rates for traditional mortgages, as they are considered to be riskier for lenders. In the context of construction loan rates, borrowers may be able to lock in a lower rate by securing a fixed-rate construction loan rather than a variable-rate construction loan. It’s also worth noting that borrowers have the option to lock in their rate prior to closing; fees, terms and conditions apply to rate locks. A rate lock secures the rate for the life of a fixed-rate construction loan, even when transitioning from the construction phase to the permanent loan phase. Ultimately, this not only streamlines the process, but removes the stress of a changing rate during construction.

 

Let’s talk rates

Construction Loan FAQs

What do I need to start the construction loan process?

You will need a contract with a licensed builder, plans, specifications and budget. To make things a little easier, we’ve put together a checklist of financial documents you will need to prepare for the personal loan process. See our Mortgage Application Checklist.

What is the required down payment for construction loans?

We may accept a down payment as low as 10%, depending upon the size of the loan and your personal financial situation. It’s important to discuss the specifics of your project with a Residential Lending Officer to understand the options available to you.

What is the maximum construction loan amount?

The maximum loan amount depends on your personal financial situation and the scope of the construction project, which includes the plans, specs, and estimated cost of construction. In some instances, you can borrow up to 90% of the cost to construct your home or the final appraised value (whichever is less). Please keep in mind, borrowing anything over 80% of the cost to construct or the value of the home requires private mortgage insurance (PMI), which is an additional monthly expense. Remember, we are here to answer your questions and help guide you based on your specific project. Do not hesitate to call a construction lender in the Maine or New Hampshire area for your home improvement and home construction process.

Can the land I already own be used as a down payment for a construction loan?

If you own or have an existing mortgage on land for more than a year, we can consider the current appraised value toward your down payment. If you have owned the land less than a year, the value is based on acquisition costs, the actual cost of the land and the cost to construct or the appraised value whichever is less. The required down payment is determined based on that value.

Does a construction loan cover appliances?

Yes, as long as the appliance is included in the home building budget, a construction loan will cover appliances. Home equity loans or lines of credit also cover appliances if you are planning to make the appliance upgrade as part of a renovation later on. These options allow you to borrow against the equity of your home to provide cash when you need it to complete home improvement projects.

How can I get home loans for the house I’m planning to build?

Our Home Mortgage Lenders are ready and waiting to hear from you! Contact them here.

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Contact Kennebunk Savings Today!

Learn more about how to get a construction loan directly through our bank to help with any financing you need to purchase land, construct a home, and much more!

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