Capital to build it — ground-up or build-out.
Construction financing doesn't work like a normal loan: it funds in draws, charges interest only on what you've drawn, and lives or dies on the budget, the plans, and the exit. Whether you're building ground-up, doing a full build-out, or want one loan that converts to a mortgage, I match you with one vetted lender who actually closes these — no broker pools, no runaround.
Which build loan fits
- Ground-up construction — build a new commercial building from the dirt up: site work, foundation, structure, finish.
- Build-out / tenant improvement — finish or renovate interior space inside an existing building (offices, retail, restaurant, medical).
- Construction-to-permanent — one loan that funds the build and then converts into a long-term mortgage, so you close once.
- Owner-occupied vs. investment — the right structure (and the strongest lenders) differ depending on whether you'll operate from the building or lease it out.
How construction financing actually works
Two things make it different from a term loan. First, the money is released in draws — the lender funds the project in stages as work is completed and inspected, not as a lump sum up front. Second, during the build you generally pay interest only on what's been drawn so far, which keeps carrying costs down while the building isn't yet producing income. When construction wraps, the loan either converts to permanent financing (construction-to-permanent) or you refinance the short-term construction loan into a long-term mortgage. Getting that exit right at the start is half the deal.
What lenders look for
Construction lending rewards a project that's ready and a sponsor who's credible: a realistic budget and plans, an experienced builder or general contractor, enough equity toward total project cost (lenders size these on loan-to-cost, not just purchase price), and a clear exit — sell, lease up, or refinance. The paperwork is heavier than most products, which is exactly why matching with a lender who specializes in your project type matters. I make sure you're pointed at the right one.
How I help
I'll help you understand what you'd likely qualify for and which structure fits, then introduce you to one vetted, construction-experienced lender. Real-estate-secured financing is arranged through licensed third-party lending partners. No broker pools, no selling your information — one relationship, handled directly.
Common questions
What's the difference between a ground-up construction loan and a build-out loan?
A ground-up construction loan funds a new building from the dirt up — site work, foundation, structure, the whole thing. A build-out (or tenant-improvement) loan funds finishing or renovating interior space inside an existing building. They're underwritten differently, so I match you with a lender who does the specific type you need.
How does a construction loan pay out?
In draws, not a lump sum. The lender releases funds in stages as work is completed and inspected, and you typically pay interest only on the amount drawn so far during the build — not on the full loan amount from day one.
What is construction-to-permanent financing?
It's one loan that funds the construction and then converts into a long-term mortgage once the building is finished — so you close once instead of taking a short-term construction loan and refinancing into a separate permanent loan later. It can save time and a second set of closing costs when it fits.
How much do I need to put down on a commercial build loan?
Construction lenders lend against loan-to-cost, so you contribute equity toward the total project cost rather than a simple purchase-price down payment. The exact split depends on the project, your experience, and your exit plan (sale, lease, or refinance). I'll tell you where you'd realistically land before you apply.
Let's get your build funded
Tell me a little about your project. If I have a vetted lender that fits, I'll make a single, direct introduction — usually within one business day. No broker pools, no resale of your information.