To build or to buy: navigating construction loans in your homeownership journey, part 2

WITH DANIEL WALSH AND LEIGH DELEDIO FROM UFINANCIAL

In our ongoing exploration of construction loans and their pivotal role in the journey towards homeownership, let’s delve deeper into the various types of construction loans available, essential considerations to bear in mind, and crucial insights regarding deposits and affordability.

Construction loans are diverse in nature, each tailored to meet specific needs and circumstances.

Offering flexibility with features like offset accounts, redraw facilities, and various repayment options, Standard Variable Rate Home Loans typically span terms ranging from one to 30 years.

Engineered with discounted interest rates and minimal fees, Low Fee Home Loans also provide flexibility, often including a redraw facility, and feature terms ranging from one to 30 years.

Considerations in construction loans

Opting for a construction loan warrants careful consideration of several factors:

* Separate loan accounts – If simultaneously borrowing for non-construction purposes, separate loan accounts are a necessity.

* Licensed builders and fixed-price contracts – Ensuring the legitimacy and financial viability of your construction project.

* Suitability – Construction loans are typically appropriate for personal investment or residential purposes.

Benefits and trade-offs

Construction loans offer several advantages, including progressive drawdown of funds, interest-only payments during the construction phase, and the ability to make additional payments at any stage.

However, they may not align with preferences for fixed monthly payments or if plans involve immediate property sales or complex constructions.

Timeframes

Construction loans are bound by specific timeframes for commencement and completion, typically within 12 and 24 months, respectively, from the disclosure date.

Adherence to standard lending criteria remains paramount throughout the process.

Deposit insights and affordability

While a 20 per cent deposit aligns with lenders’ preferences for an 80 per cent loan-to-value ratio (LVR), flexibility exists through Lender’s Mortgage Insurance (LMI), allowing loans covering up to 95 per cent of the property value with a 5 per cent upfront contribution.

Assessing affordability involves considering personal circumstances, financial factors, and distinguishing between borrowing capacity and daily lifestyle choices.

Planning your build

Following the assessment of affordability, meticulous planning becomes imperative:

* Research – Explore options, sustainability, infrastructure, and local regulations

* Choose a builder and contracts – Select a reputable builder and secure a fixed-price building contract

* Draw up plans – Detailing plans and legal review of contracts are essential steps

* Out of contract items – Additional improvements or renovations must be formally quoted

* Approval process – Obtain approval from the local council or an accredited consultant, and

* Apply for a construction loan – Consider additional costs like Stamp Duty and legal fees.

Finalising your loan

Upon approval, gather necessary documents, including income evidence, for completing valuations. Once approved, you’ll receive a letter of offer and a contract for your construction loan.

In navigating the complexities of construction loans, understanding the options, considerations, and processes is paramount to achieving your homeownership goals.

If you want to know more, get in touch with our specialist team at UFinancial by heading to ufinancial.com.au