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GoBuildYourHouse
  • Financing
  • Construction Process
  • Planning & Design
  • Permits
  • Mistakes
  • Tools

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.
USDA New-Construction Loans: How Rural Borrowers Can Build with Little or No Down
Financing & Loans

USDA New-Construction Loans: How Rural Borrowers Can Build with Little or No Down

September 2, 2025 by Matt Harlan 25 min read

Learn how USDA new-construction loans help rural borrowers build homes with zero down payment. Step-by-step guide with timelines, requirements, and common pi…

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Va Construction-To-Permanent Loans: Zero-Down New-Build Financing for Veterans
Financing & Loans

Va Construction-To-Permanent Loans: Zero-Down New-Build Financing for Veterans

September 2, 2025 by Matt Harlan 26 min read

Discover VA construction-to-permanent loans: zero-down financing for veterans to build, remodel, or buy land. Learn eligibility, costs, and how to navigate t…

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FHA One-Time Close (OTC) Explained: The Complete Guide for First-Time Builders
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FHA One-Time Close (OTC) Explained: The Complete Guide for First-Time Builders

September 2, 2025 by Matt Harlan 17 min read

Learn how FHA One-Time Close simplifies building your first home: one loan, one closing, no refinancing. Get the complete guide for first-time builders.

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Single-Close vs. Two-Close Construction Loans: Which Structure Really Costs Less?
Financing & Loans

Single-Close vs. Two-Close Construction Loans: Which Structure Really Costs Less?

September 1, 2025 by Matt Harlan 13 min read

Discover the true cost of single-close vs. two-close construction loans. We break down fees, interest rates & hidden costs to find the best option for your c…

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How to Prepare Your Lot for Construction Equipment
Construction Process

How to Prepare Your Lot for Construction Equipment

September 1, 2025 by Matt Harlan 15 min read

Learn essential steps to prepare your construction site for heavy equipment. Ensure smooth logistics, avoid delays, and pass inspections with expert lot prep…

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How to Avoid Scope Creep During Construction
Construction Process

How to Avoid Scope Creep During Construction

September 1, 2025 by Matt Harlan 16 min read

Learn how to prevent scope creep in construction projects. Keep your build on schedule and budget with clear processes, change orders, and disciplined habits.

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The Best Time of Year to Start Your Home Build
Construction Process

The Best Time of Year to Start Your Home Build

September 1, 2025 by Matt Harlan 15 min read

Discover the optimal time to start your home build for faster progress, fewer delays, and lower stress. Learn to align climate, permits, and material lead ti…

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How to Coordinate Multiple Trades on a Building Site
Construction Process

How to Coordinate Multiple Trades on a Building Site

September 1, 2025 by Matt Harlan 15 min read

Learn expert strategies for coordinating multiple trades on building sites to avoid delays, reduce costs, and ensure smooth project handoffs. Boost efficienc…

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How to Keep Your Build on Schedule Without Sacrificing Quality
Construction Process

How to Keep Your Build on Schedule Without Sacrificing Quality

September 1, 2025 by Matt Harlan 16 min read

Learn a field-tested system to keep your construction project on schedule without sacrificing quality. Avoid delays, protect your budget, and maintain crafts…

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20 Construction Hacks to Save Time and Money
Construction Process

20 Construction Hacks to Save Time and Money

September 1, 2025 by Matt Harlan 12 min read

Discover 20 proven construction hacks to save time and money. Learn how to compress schedules, eliminate rework, and make early decisions for efficient home …

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Recent Posts

  • Why Are New Construction Houses Built So Poorly?

    Why Are New Construction Houses Built So Poorly?

    Matt Harlan•Jan 3
  • What’s the Difference Between Building Your Own Home and Buying a New Construction House?

    What’s the Difference Between Building Your Own Home and Buying a New Construction House?

    Matt Harlan•Jan 3
  • Financial Help to Build a House in Pennsylvania (Guide to Grants, Loans & Programs)

    Financial Help to Build a House in Pennsylvania (Guide to Grants, Loans & Programs)

    Matt Harlan•Nov 18
  • Financial Help to Build a House in Virginia (Guide to Grants, Loans & Programs)

    Financial Help to Build a House in Virginia (Guide to Grants, Loans & Programs)

    Matt Harlan•Nov 18
  • How to Get Financial Help to Build a House in Tennessee

    How to Get Financial Help to Build a House in Tennessee

    Matt Harlan•Nov 18

Featured Posts

  • Why Are New Construction Houses Built So Poorly?

    Why Are New Construction Houses Built So Poorly?

    Matt Harlan•Jan 3
  • What’s the Difference Between Building Your Own Home and Buying a New Construction House?

    What’s the Difference Between Building Your Own Home and Buying a New Construction House?

    Matt Harlan•Jan 3
  • Financial Help to Build a House in Pennsylvania (Guide to Grants, Loans & Programs)

    Financial Help to Build a House in Pennsylvania (Guide to Grants, Loans & Programs)

    Matt Harlan•Nov 18
  • Financial Help to Build a House in Virginia (Guide to Grants, Loans & Programs)

    Financial Help to Build a House in Virginia (Guide to Grants, Loans & Programs)

    Matt Harlan•Nov 18
  • How to Get Financial Help to Build a House in Tennessee

    How to Get Financial Help to Build a House in Tennessee

    Matt Harlan•Nov 18

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Everything You Need to Know to Build Your Own Home

  • Financing
  • Construction Process
  • Planning & Design
  • Permits
  • Mistakes
  • Tools

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