Built to spec.
Structured for the build.
Construction loans in Canberra and the ACT need a lender who understands build contracts, progress draws, and how local projects actually run. We structure facilities that match your actual build — not a standard product forced onto a non-standard situation.
You pay interest on the drawn balance.
A construction loan is not a mortgage with extra steps. Funds release in stages as the build progresses, and interest is charged only on what's drawn — not the full facility. That changes how the loan is structured and who should write it.
We structure the drawdown schedule around your build contract, manage the lender through construction, and plan the transition to a permanent loan at practical completion. Construction lending needs active management from application to handover — not just settlement.
Understand your build
Land ownership, builder selection, contract status, timeline. Construction lending needs different information from a standard mortgage. We map it early.
Structure the facility
Facility size, drawdown schedule, and interest-only period built around your contract and progress payments — designed to match your build.
Match the lender
Owner-occupier, spec investor, owner-builder, or commercial — not every lender suits every build. We go to the ones whose criteria fit.
Coordinate progress draws
Each stage needs certification. We keep payments moving so your builder isn't left waiting on paperwork.
From first call to practical completion.
Construction loan applications are document-intensive. We do the heavy lifting — assembling the valuation package, council approvals, and managing lender queries through assessment.
We won't push a build that doesn't stack. If the numbers are marginal or the contract isn't ready, we'll tell you — and tell you what to fix before any lender sees it.
Understand your build
Land ownership, builder, contract status, and timeline mapped out early.
Structure the facility
Facility size, drawdown schedule, and interest-only period matched to your contract.
Select the right lender
We identify lenders whose criteria fit — standard build, spec, owner-builder, or commercial.
Manage the application
Valuation package, council approvals, and lender queries — handled end to end.
Coordinate progress draws
Each stage drawdown needs certification. We keep the process moving so your builder isn't stalled.
Plan the transition
At completion the loan converts to a mortgage or investment loan. We review, refinance if better, and lock in the right long-term product.
50+ lenders. The right one
The construction market splits into three broad tiers. The right lender depends on your build type, contract structure, owner-builder status, and whether you need LMI. We know which lenders will write your deal — and which won't.
Lowest rates. Require full council approval and a fixed-price contract before drawdown.
More flexible on contract type, owner-builder situations, and loan structure.
Short-term construction bridges for time-sensitive situations or non-standard builds.
FAQs
How does a construction loan work in Australia?
A construction loan is a short-term facility structured around your build contract's progress payment schedule. Rather than receiving the full loan amount upfront, funds are drawn down in stages as construction milestones are certified — typically slab, frame, lock-up, fixing, and practical completion. Interest is charged only on the amount drawn at each stage, not the full facility.
What LVR can I borrow for a construction loan?
Most lenders will lend up to 80% of the combined land and construction value without lender's mortgage insurance (LMI). With LMI, some lenders will go to 90%. Owner-builder situations are typically capped at 60–70% depending on the lender and your licence status.
Do I need a fixed-price contract for a construction loan?
Most lenders — and all lenders requiring LMI — require a fixed-price building contract from a licensed builder. Some non-bank lenders will consider cost-plus or construction management contracts, but this narrows the lender panel and typically increases the rate.
Can I get a construction loan as an owner-builder in Canberra?
Yes, but the lender pool is smaller. Major banks and most non-bank lenders don't write owner-builder loans. Specialist lenders who understand the owner-builder licence structure in the ACT are available, and we know which ones to approach and how to position the application.
Construction loan types we structure.
Residential and commercial construction. Deal sizes range from standard owner-occupier builds through to larger spec and commercial projects.
The parameters that shape your facility.
The metrics that determine your borrowing capacity and how the facility is structured.
For owner-occupier builds with LMI; typically 80% without.
Construction period, then converts to a permanent loan.
Charged only on the drawn balance — not the full facility.
Payments released against certified build milestones.
Most lenders require a fixed-price contract for LMI purposes.
Registered builder required; owner-builder options available via specialists.
Progress drawdowns, certified in five stages.
Construction funds release in five certified stages. Your lender engages a valuer to inspect and certify each milestone before releasing the next draw. We coordinate this so payments reach your builder on time.
What you need in place.
Most construction loan applications fail because the documentation isn't ready at the time of application. We help you prepare before we approach any lender.
Ready to discuss your build?
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What to Expect
- Honest assessment of your options
- Response within 24 hours
- Strategic insight, not a sales pitch
- No obligation discussion
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Whether you've got a building contract ready or are still planning your construction — we'll help you understand your options.
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