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HomeAnswersHow Does a Construction Loan Work?
Plain-English answer

How does a construction loan work?

The direct answer
A construction loan is a home loan designed for building a new home or doing major renovations. Instead of receiving the full loan amount upfront, the lender releases funds in stages (called progress payments or drawdowns) as each phase of construction is completed. You typically only pay interest on the amount drawn down so far, keeping repayments lower during the build.

How construction loan drawdowns work

Construction loans are typically drawn down in 5 to 6 stages: slab or base, frame, lock-up, fit-out, and completion. At each stage, your builder invoices for the work completed, your lender sends a valuer to confirm the work, and then releases the funds. In Adelaide, a typical new build takes 6 to 12 months.

During construction, you only pay interest on the amount drawn down - not the full loan. So if your total loan is $500,000 but only $100,000 has been drawn, you pay interest on $100,000. Once the build is complete, the loan converts to a standard home loan with full principal and interest repayments. Lendology compares 60+ lenders to find construction loan products with competitive rates and flexible drawdown terms.


What you need for a construction loan

To apply for a construction loan, you will need: a fixed-price building contract with a licensed builder, council-approved plans and specifications, evidence of your deposit (typically 10-20% of the total land plus build cost), and standard income documentation. If you already own the land, its equity can count toward your deposit.

Not all lenders handle construction loans well - some have slow drawdown processes that frustrate builders, while others are more efficient. Lendology knows which lenders are builder-friendly in Adelaide and can recommend the right fit for your project, whether it is a house-and-land package, a custom build, or a major renovation.


Common questions

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a construction loan for renovations?
Yes, if the renovation is substantial - typically over $100,000. Smaller renovations are usually funded through a personal loan, redraw on your existing mortgage, or a line of credit. Major structural renovations that require council approval and a licensed builder are well suited to a construction loan structure.
What happens if the build goes over budget?
If costs blow out, you may need to fund the difference yourself or apply for additional lending. Using a fixed-price building contract and including a contingency buffer of 10-15% helps manage this risk. Lendology factors in a realistic buffer when assessing your borrowing capacity.
Do I need to own the land first?
Not necessarily. Many buyers purchase land and construction together. The loan covers both, with land settlement happening first and construction drawdowns beginning when building starts. If you already own land, its equity can count toward your deposit.

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The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute financial advice. Given Finance Pty Ltd (t/a Lendology) ACN 624 144 501 is authorised under LMG Broker Services Pty Ltd ACL 517192.