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Construction loans

Finance for the home you're building.

New builds, knockdown rebuilds and major renovations run on a different finance rhythm. Progress draws, fixed-price contracts, valuations, and interest-only during construction all need to be coordinated so the build keeps moving.

How a construction loan actually works.

A construction loan is usually split into two phases. During construction, you draw down progressively as each building stage completes — typically deposit, base, frame, lock-up, fixing, and completion. You service interest only on the amount drawn down so far, which keeps cashflow manageable while the full loan isn't yet advanced. Once the build finishes, the loan rolls into a standard principal and interest product on the full balance.

This sits inside the broader home loans offering. If your build is a small-scale development (a duplex or three-townhouse project), you may actually need development finance instead — the lender, LVR, and documentation are different. We'll tell you which side of that line your project falls on.

What we map for a construction deal.

Land + construction split
Whether you're buying the land separately or simultaneously, and how the loan is staged around that.
Fixed vs cost-plus contracts
Most lenders require a fixed-price HIA/MBA contract. Cost-plus builds can work but need the right lender.
Draw schedule
How many stages the loan releases, and what documentation each draw requires from the builder.
Valuation handling
How the 'as-if-complete' valuation is managed — this is often where construction deals quietly fall over.

Construction FAQs

How long can I stay interest-only during construction?
Typically 12 months, extendable to 24 for larger builds if the lender agrees upfront. Past that window, the loan reverts to P&I whether the build is finished or not — which is why timelines matter.
Can I be an owner-builder?
Yes, but lender appetite drops sharply. Most lenders cap owner-builder loans at lower LVRs and require extra documentation. We'll tell you which lenders will look at it.
What happens if the build goes over budget?
You'll need to cover the overrun with additional funds — either from savings, equity release, or a top-up. We build a contingency buffer into the initial structure so a 5-10% overrun doesn't derail the loan.

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General advice disclaimer. The information on this page is general in nature and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it, and seek professional advice where relevant.

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