🏠 Step-by-Step: The Construction Loan Process From Pre-Approval to Move-In
🧱 Draw Schedules, Builder Approvals & What to Expect During Construction
Build with clarity, confidence, and a real plan in place.
Whether you’re designing your dream home or planning to build on land you already own, the very first step is getting pre-approved for a construction loan.
It’s not just about getting the green light — it’s about understanding your budget, knowing your options, and avoiding delays down the line.
👉 Here’s exactly how to get pre-approved for a construction loan — and what to expect from start to finish.
✅ Step 1: Connect With a Construction-Friendly Lender
Not all mortgage lenders offer construction loans — and not all know how to handle them smoothly.
At PRMI, we specialize in construction financing and can help you:
- Understand your borrowing power
- Choose the right loan structure (one-time or two-time close)
- Get matched with builders and local resources if needed
✅ Step 2: Review Your Credit & Income
While construction loans are flexible, they still require:
- A minimum credit score (usually 620+)
- Verified income and employment
- A stable financial profile
We’ll run your credit and review:
- Income documentation (W-2s, tax returns, or 1099s)
- Monthly debts and obligations
- Assets and reserves
💡 Even if you’re not “perfect on paper,” we’ll help structure a realistic path forward.
✅ Step 3: Outline Your Budget and Down Payment
Construction loans are based on:
- The total cost to build (land + materials + labor)
- Your available funds for a down payment (typically 10–20%)
- Estimated reserves for taxes, insurance, and overages
We’ll help estimate your full loan amount and monthly payment based on the completed home value.
✅ Step 4: Get Pre-Approval Letter
Once you’re approved, you’ll receive a pre-approval letter stating:
- Your approved construction loan amount
- Loan type (one-time or two-time close)
- Loan-to-value (LTV) and credit terms
- Timeline and expiration
This letter helps you:
- Make land offers with confidence
- Start conversations with builders
- Know what you can realistically build
🧠 Why Pre-Approval Matters So Much
✅ Sets clear financial expectations
✅ Helps builders price out realistic plans
✅ Avoids delays later in underwriting
✅ Helps you move fast when the right lot or builder becomes available
It’s not just paperwork — it’s your roadmap to success.
🏢 Why PRMI?
PRMI is a direct lender offering both:
- One-time close construction loans
- Two-time close and land + build options
We offer:
- Fast, builder-friendly pre-approvals
- In-house support from blueprint to final inspection
- Clear guidance on what you need (and what to expect)
We make the approval process smooth, so you can focus on the fun part — building.
👇 Want to Get Pre-Approved for Your Build?
Let’s review your budget, timeline, and builder plans — and help you get pre-approved with confidence.