Mechanics’ Liens, Lien Waivers, and Draws: Protect Your Money During Construction
Learn how mechanics’ liens, lien waivers, and draws work together to protect your construction payments. Keep your project on track and your money secure.
Matt Harlan
I bring first-hand experience as both a builder and a broker, having navigated the challenges of designing, financing, and constructing houses from the ground up. I have worked directly with banks, inspectors, and local officials, giving me a clear understanding of how the process really works behind the paperwork. I am here to share practical advice, lessons learned, and insider tips to help others avoid costly mistakes and move smoothly from blueprint to finished home.
Down Payment vs. Points vs. Permanent Buydown: Which Option Saves More on a New Build?
Compare down payments, points, and permanent buydowns for new builds. Learn which strategy saves the most money and fits your financial goals best.
HELOC vs. Cash vs. C2P Add-Ons: Funding Upgrades and Overages the Smart Way
Learn how to fund home upgrades and overages smartly using cash, HELOC, or C2P add-ons. Protect your rate, appraisal, and sanity during construction.
PMI vs. MIP on Construction-to-Permanent Loans: What You’ll Pay and How to Reduce It
Learn how PMI vs. MIP on construction-to-permanent loans affects your costs. Get strategies to reduce mortgage insurance with real examples and avoid common …
Construction Loan Closing Costs: 17 Line Items Explained—and How to Cut Each One
Learn how to cut construction loan closing costs with our guide to 17 line items. Discover negotiable fees and save thousands on your build project.
Stacking Employer-Assisted Housing with State DPA and C2P Loans (Without Violating the Rules)
Learn how to legally combine employer-assisted housing, state DPA grants, and C2P loans for employee homebuying. Real-world examples and pitfalls to avoid.
Mortgage Credit Certificates (MCC) for New Construction: Lower Your Tax Bill, Raise Your Approval Odds
Discover how Mortgage Credit Certificates (MCCs) for new construction can lower your tax bill and boost mortgage approval odds. Learn eligibility and benefits.
Tax Credits, Utility Rebates, and Mortgage Points: Reduce Your Total Cost of Capital on a New Build
Learn how to slash your new home’s total cost of capital using tax credits, utility rebates, and mortgage points. Expert strategies to save thousands and imp…
Escrow Holdbacks, Contingencies, and Reserves: Protecting Cash Flow in a Construction Loan
Protect construction loan cash flow with escrow holdbacks, contingencies, and reserves. Learn how to prevent project delays and ensure smooth funding from st…
Fixed-Price vs. Cost-Plus Contracts: Which Saves You Money—and What Lenders Prefer
Learn whether fixed-price or cost-plus construction contracts save more money and what lenders prefer. Expert insights on risk, flexibility, and funding appr…