Build with us — finance with confidence.
Construction loans through our trusted partner Washington Financial Bank. From concept to keys, the financing matches the build.
We’ve collaborated with Washington Financial for years, structuring construction loans for clients across Western PA. They understand custom builds, hillside lots, and historic renovations — because they’ve financed dozens of them with us.
How a construction loan actually flows from approval to permanent financing.
Pre-approval
Income, assets, and credit review with Washington Financial. You’ll know your budget ceiling before we start design.
Plans & appraisal
We submit architectural plans and our line-item budget to the bank. The appraiser values the finished home as collateral.
Draws during build
We invoice the bank in stages — foundation, framing, mechanicals, finishes — and they release funds after each inspection.
Conversion
At completion, your construction loan converts to a standard mortgage. One closing, one set of fees.
Three structures, scoped to your build.
Construction-to-permanent
The most common path for new custom homes. Build phase rolls automatically into a 30-year mortgage at completion.
- Single closing
- Interest-only during build
- Locks rate at closing
Renovation loan
For whole-home renovations and major additions where the existing home stays as collateral. Funded against post-renovation value.
- Funded against ARV
- Stage-based draws
- Refinance at completion
Lot & build
Combined financing for clients who don’t yet own their lot. We help you evaluate the parcel before you commit, with the bank in the loop.
- Lot acquisition + build
- Site feasibility included
- Single underwriting
What people actually ask about construction loans.
Do I need to use Washington Financial?
No. We work with whichever lender you choose — but our process is best-coordinated with Washington Financial because we’ve worked with them for years and they know how we draw, invoice, and close out.
How much down payment is typical?
Construction loans usually require 20–25% down (which can include the lot value). Renovation loans range more — your loan officer will model it against your specific project and equity position.
What if construction goes over budget?
Our contracts include a contingency line item (typically 5–10%) that the bank includes in the loan. Beyond that, change orders are funded by client cash or a small loan increase, depending on the underwriting.
How long does pre-approval take?
For a complete application, Washington Financial typically issues pre-approval within 7–10 business days. We can introduce you to a loan officer the same week you call us.
Can I make selections during the build?
Most material and finish selections need to be locked at the start so the appraiser can value accurately. We hold an early selections meeting to lock 80% of choices — the remaining 20% can flex during construction.