🏗️ What Is a Construction Loan and How Does It Work?
🏠 Step-by-Step: The Construction Loan Process From Pre-Approval to Move-In
Two ways to build — which one fits your timeline and strategy?
If you’re building a new home, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make (before breaking ground) is how you finance the construction.
There are two main options:
- A Construction-to-Permanent Loan (One-Time Close)
- A Two-Time Close Construction Loan
👉 Both get the job done — but they work differently behind the scenes.
Let’s compare the two, so you can choose the path that fits your budget, timeline, and long-term goals.
✅ What Is a Construction-to-Permanent Loan?
Also called a one-time close, this structure combines:
- Your construction financing
- And your permanent mortgage
You close once, before construction starts.
Then, when the build is finished, the loan automatically converts into your long-term mortgage (usually a 15- or 30-year fixed loan).
✔️ Pros:
- One closing = fewer fees
- Lock your interest rate upfront
- Smooth transition from building to owning
- Simpler process overall
⚠️ Cons:
- Rate lock happens before construction — no flexibility if rates drop
- May require more upfront paperwork
🔁 What Is a Two-Time Close Construction Loan?
This involves two separate loans:
- One loan covers construction only
- The second loan is your standard mortgage, secured after the home is complete
You’ll close twice — once before building, and again before moving in.
✔️ Pros:
- Potential to lock in a lower rate when the home is done
- More flexibility if your plans or financing needs evolve
- Can sometimes qualify with a smaller down payment upfront
⚠️ Cons:
- Two sets of closing costs
- More paperwork, more moving parts
- Need to requalify for the final mortgage
📊 Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | One-Time Close | Two-Time Close |
---|---|---|
Closings | One | Two |
Rate Lock | Before construction | At permanent phase |
Qualification | Once, upfront | Twice (construction & permanent) |
Costs | Lower overall | More total fees |
Flexibility | More structured | More adjustable |
Risk of Delay | Lower | Slightly higher |
Best For | Simplicity, predictability | Flexibility, rate shoppers |
🧠 Which One Is Right for You?
Choose a Construction-to-Perm Loan if:
- You want a simpler, one-time process
- You prefer to lock your interest rate early
- You want to avoid requalifying later
- You have stable income and strong credit
Choose a Two-Time Close if:
- You’re building over a longer timeline
- You want to wait and see what mortgage rates do
- You may want to change loan type later
- You’re working with a builder that requires it
📘 We’ll walk through your goals, builder relationship, and timeline to recommend the best structure.
🏢 Why PRMI?
At PRMI, we offer both construction loan structures, and help you:
- Understand your cost breakdown and approval path
- Lock in financing that matches your project and payment strategy
- Navigate builder approvals, draw schedules, and documentation
- Transition from plans to move-in — with a clear roadmap
We’re your builder-friendly, borrower-first lending partner from blueprint to closing day.
👇 Want Help Deciding Between One-Time and Two-Time Close?
Let’s run the numbers on both — and show you what makes the most sense for your build.