This page has been created to outline the consumer construction products offered by George
Mason Mortgage, LLC and to provide additional guidance and support to assist customers
of George Mason Mortgage, LLC.
Borrowers wishing to build a custom home or renovate their existing
house can obtain financing through our Construction Lending Program. This program will take you from lot/property acquisition
through the completion of construction or renovation, after which we can offer you the permanent financing that best fits your needs.
Our standard construction loan provides 12 months of financing. Extensions are available when needed.
The size of the dwelling and the time of the year are two factors that will affect your construction period.
This is a great option if you are purchasing a home that needs "fixing up" or you are planning a major renovation
to your existing home. This loan covers the purchase or refinance and provides the funds for the work being done.
The construction or renovation funds will be released in draws, as frequently as monthly. Once work is complete on
the property, George Mason Mortgage offers many permanent financing ptions for you to choose from.
Many homeowners enjoy their current home and love their neighborhood but would like the additional
living space, updated conveniences and energy efficiency that many older homes lack. Our home improvement
loan program can help you obtain the items on your wish list while keeping you in the home you love. We accomplish
this by lending off the "as complete" value of your property, not the value before renovations have been made.
It will be necessary to make a regular mortgage loan application, just as it is for any residential
loan, however, additional information will be needed, such as a lot purchase contract, or proof of
ownership if you have already purchased the lot.
You will also need to provide the prospective lender with a copy of the construction contract signed
by both the borrowers and the builder. This should contain a draw schedule, as well as a bottom line
cost of construction. You will also be asked to provide a set of plans and specifications that contain
a list of materials to be used in construction, square footage designations, a draw schedule, and a cost
breakdown. If all this paper work seems confusing, simply work closely with your
custom builder - he or she will understand these requirements and assist in providing the correct documents
to your lender.
Understanding the following key terms can give you a good background as you enter into the custom
home financing process.
Appraisal - An appraisal will be required as a condition of the loan approval. The appraisal
will be done by a qualified, licensed appraiser who will determine the value of the land and the home
using the architectural plans and specifications. You will know in advance of construction what the
home will be worth upon completion.
Builder Draws - As the construction of the home progresses, the builder will require financial
draws against the loan. These draws are used to pay subcontractors and other expenses associated with
construction. The lender will require an inspection of the project at each draw requests to determine
work completion, or work in place.
Mechanics Lien Coverage and Title Insurance - Title insurance issued with Mechanics Lien
coverage will be required on construction/permanent loans in the state of Virginia. In conjunction
with each draw of funds by the builder, an interim title search will be conducted to determine that
no mechanics lien has been filed against your property. Please consult your Title Insurance Company
regarding this coverage.
Builders Risk Insurance - A Builders Risk Insurance Policy will be required during
construction by the lender. Please consult your Insurance Agent regarding this coverage and
its cost.
Interest Payments - All payments during the construction phase of your loan will be interest
only and calculated off the outstanding loan balance. The payments will be billed monthly, 30 days
in arrears.