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…
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.
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…
Bridge Financing for Land Purchase Before Your Construction-to-Permanent Loan
Secure your dream lot with bridge financing for land purchase. Buy time to finalize your construction-to-permanent loan without losing the perfect property. …
Land Loans vs. Construction Loans: Sequencing, Refinancing, and Total Cost
Learn the key differences between land loans and construction loans, including sequencing, refinancing options, and total costs to finance your custom home b…
Loan-to-Cost vs. Loan-to-Value: The Ratios That Decide Your Construction Approval
Understand Loan-to-Cost (LTC) and Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratios to secure construction financing. Learn how lenders calculate these caps and maximize your loan …
Builder’s Risk, Course of Construction, and Wrap Policies: Insurance Your Lender Will Demand
Learn why lenders require builder’s risk, course of construction, and wrap-up liability insurance for construction loans. Protect your project and secure fin…
Rate-Lock Strategies for Long Builds: Float-Downs, Extensions, and Permanent Buydowns
Protect your budget on long builds with rate-lock strategies. Learn how float-downs, extensions, and permanent buydowns manage mortgage rate risk during cons…
New-Construction Appraisals: How They Work—and How to Avoid a Low Value
Learn how new-construction appraisals work and get expert tips to avoid low valuations. Essential guide for builders, buyers, and real estate agents.
Self-Employed or 1099? Getting Approved for a Construction Loan When Your Income Is “Messy”
Self-employed or 1099? Learn how to get approved for a construction loan with irregular income. Expert tips for contractors, freelancers, and small business …
How to Use State HFA Down Payment Assistance with Construction Loans (Without Breaking Rules)
Learn how to combine state HFA down payment assistance with construction loans legally. Avoid costly mistakes and maximize your homebuilding budget with expe…