Construction Loans

Construction Loans for new builds and renovations across Melbourne and Australia

Rated 5 from 44 Reviews

We'll help you fund your new build or renovation

At Premier Path Finance, we understand that building your dream home or undertaking a major renovation requires careful financial planning and the right guidance. Construction loans offer a tailored solution for clients throughout Melbourne, Victoria, and across Australia who are embarking on new builds or significant renovations. By accessing construction loan options from a wide panel of banks and lenders, you can ensure your project is financially supported from the first sod to final handover.

Construction loans are designed specifically for those who need funds released in stages as their project progresses. Unlike standard home loans, these loans operate on a progressive drawdown system - meaning you only pay interest on the amount drawn down at any given time. This can deliver meaningful savings compared to paying interest on the full loan amount from day one. Progressive drawdowns align with a builder's payment schedule, allowing funds to be released at key stages of the project, ensuring registered builders and subcontractors are paid promptly as work is completed.

One of the most important considerations when applying is understanding the interest rate and repayment structure available to you. Many construction loans offer interest-only repayments during the building phase, which helps manage cash flow until the project is complete. Once construction is finalised, the loan typically converts to principal and interest repayments. Construction loans also often require an 'as if complete' valuation, which assesses the property's value once all works - including any out-of-contract items - are finished.

Before applying, it's worth having a clear plan in place. This means selecting a suitable location within your budget, confirming the land is appropriate for development, and understanding any council restrictions or permit requirements. If you're looking to demolish an existing property or buy off the plan, a development application will need to be submitted detailing your intentions and how you'll meet local regulations.

It's also worth factoring in the progressive drawing fee, which varies between lenders and applies to each drawdown of funds. Your ability to commence building within a set period from the disclosure date is another critical point - delays can affect your loan terms or trigger additional costs.

Construction loans aren't limited to new builds. They're equally well-suited to major home renovations, whether you're adding an extension, updating a kitchen, or undertaking a full structural overhaul. These loans provide the financial flexibility to reach each construction milestone without disrupting your day-to-day cash flow.

At Premier Path Finance, we guide you through the entire application process with clarity and care. We help you compare construction loan options across our lender panel, understand the rates and structures on offer, and present your application in the strongest possible light. Whether you're a first home buyer building new or an experienced owner looking to expand your property portfolio, we're here to support your project at every stage.

Reach out to our team today to discuss your construction loan needs and explore the options available to you.

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How We Work With Construction Loans Clients

At Premier Path Finance, our approach to Construction Loans is built around your project and your circumstances - not a generic checklist. Here is how we work with you from first conversation through to settlement.

Step 1: Understanding Your Project

We begin with a genuine conversation about what you're looking to build or renovate, your timeline, your budget, and how you plan to use the property once complete. Whether you're constructing a new home from the ground up or undertaking a significant renovation, we take the time to understand your situation before making any recommendations.

Step 2: Reviewing Your Financial Position

We assess your income, expenses, existing liabilities, and any assets relevant to your Construction Loans application. This gives us a clear picture of what lenders will consider and helps us identify the structures and products most suited to your profile.

Step 3: Comparing Lenders and Structures

Not all construction loan products are the same. We compare options across our panel of lenders - looking at progressive drawdown terms, interest-only periods, progressive drawing fees, and conversion conditions - and present you with a shortlist that reflects your priorities and project requirements.

Step 4: Preparing and Submitting Your Application

We manage the paperwork and liaise directly with lenders on your behalf. Your application is prepared accurately and presented compellingly, giving you the strongest possible position for approval.

Step 5: Approval and Settlement

Once your construction loan is approved, we walk you through the terms in plain language, answer any questions, and coordinate settlement so everything proceeds without delay. You'll know exactly what you're signing and why.

Step 6: Support Through the Build

Our relationship doesn't end at settlement. We're available throughout your build to help coordinate drawdown requests, address any lender queries, and ensure your finance continues to work as intended right through to project completion.

Reviews for Premier Path Finance

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Is

Luke was amazing helping me buy my first property, from our initial chat and chatting about my circumstances and next steps right through to settlement! Luke was always happy to answer my questions, talk through the process and give me all the options, and made a process I had no idea about as seamless as possible. Couldn’t recommend more highly!

SK

Stacie Karas

We have dealt with Luke from Premier Path Finance on numerous occasions for purchase of properties and refinances. Luke is very responsive and nothing is too much trouble. He has his clients’ best interest at heart! Every dealing has been a smooth and stress free transaction and we would not even consider engaging anyone else in the future. Highly recommend!

RS

Rhys Smith

Luke Owen has been my go-to lending guy for many years. Previously he was with CBA Private Banking. A+ and VIP service. He joined Premier Path in recent years which has been a game changer. It's opened up lots of new possibilities for lending, residential, commercial and SMSF. I've introduced several heavy hitter former C-level employees to Luke and they've always been impressed! The service is even better now that he's not hamstrung by CBAs sometimes onerous rules!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use a mortgage broker instead of going directly to a bank?

Banks can only offer their own products. At Premier Path Finance, we compare a wide range of lenders to help you find a loan that suits your goals and circumstances.
We do the research, paperwork and negotiations on your behalf, making the process simple, stress-free and easy to understand.
Currently over 80% of loans in Australia are provided through a broker instead of directly at the bank, due to the options a broker can provide.

How much does it cost to use a mortgage broker?

There is no cost to you for using a broker.
We are paid by the lender once your loan settles, which means you won't pay any additional fees and there is no impact on your interest rate or loan terms. Our service is designed to make the process easier by doing the research, comparing lenders and managing the paperwork on your behalf.
With Premier Path Finance, you receive expert advice and support at no extra cost, while we do the hard work for you.

How much can I borrow?

Your borrowing capacity depends on factors including:
• Your income
• Existing debts and expenses
• Deposit amount
• Employment type
• Credit history
We'll assess your situation and help you understand your borrowing power before you start looking for a property.

How much deposit do I need for a home loan?

Many lenders allow eligible borrowers to purchase with as little as a 5% deposit. A larger deposit may provide more lender options and help reduce costs such as Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
We'll guide you through your options and explain exactly what you'll need.

What is home loan pre-approval?

Pre-approval is an indication from a lender of how much you may be able to borrow before you purchase a property.
Pre-approval can help you shop with confidence and understand your budget. We'll manage the entire process and liaise with the lender on your behalf.

How long does the home loan process take?

Timeframes vary depending on the lender and your circumstances. Many approvals are completed within a few days to several weeks.
Our team keeps the process moving and handles the communication with lenders, making everything easier for you.

Can you help first home buyers?

Absolutely.
Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, but we'll guide you through every step. We'll explain the process in plain English, help you understand your borrowing capacity and determine whether you're eligible for grants and concessions.

What government grants are available for first home buyers?

Depending on your circumstances and location, you may be eligible for:
• First Home Owner Grants
• Stamp duty concessions
• Home Guarantee Scheme initiatives
We'll help you understand what support may be available and whether you qualify.

Can I buy a property with a guarantor?

Yes.
A guarantor loan may allow eligible borrowers to purchase with little or no deposit while avoiding LMI.
Using a family guarantee in some cases can cover the full purchase cost of a property, inclusive of stamp duty (105% lend), with identical loan terms to a standard loan.
We'll explain how guarantor loans work and whether they're suitable for your circumstances.

What is Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)?

Lenders Mortgage Insurance is generally required when you borrow more than 80% of the property's value.
LMI protects the lender, not the borrower. The cost varies depending on the size of your loan and deposit. We can help you understand whether it applies and explore options to minimise or avoid it.

Should I refinance my home loan?

Refinancing may help you:
• Lower your interest rate
• Reduce repayments
• Consolidate debts
• Access equity
• Improve loan features
We'll compare lenders and manage the refinancing process from start to finish.

Can I access equity in my home?

Yes.
If your property's value has increased or you've paid down your loan, you may be able to access equity for:
• Renovations
• Investment properties
• Debt consolidation
• Personal expenses
We'll help you understand how much equity may be available and which options suit your goals.

Can you help property investors?

Yes.
We assist investors with:
• Investment property loans
• Equity release
• Portfolio growth
• Interest-only lending
• Refinancing existing loans
Whether you're buying your first investment property or expanding your portfolio, we'll help create a strategy that aligns with your goals.

Can I get a home loan with a low deposit?

Yes.
Depending on your circumstances, some lenders offer low-deposit home loans and government schemes may also help eligible buyers enter the market sooner.
We'll explain your options and help you find a pathway into home ownership.

What is the difference between a fixed and variable interest rate?

A fixed rate provides certainty by locking in your interest rate for a set period.
A variable rate can change over time and often offers greater flexibility, including offset accounts and extra repayments.
We'll explain the pros and cons and help you choose the right loan structure.

What is an offset account?

An offset account is a transaction account linked to your home loan.
The balance in the account reduces the amount of interest charged on your loan, potentially helping you save thousands over the life of your mortgage.

What is a construction loan?

A construction loan is designed for people building a new home.
Funds are generally released in stages throughout the building process rather than in one lump sum.
We'll guide you through the process and coordinate with the lender and builder to help everything run smoothly.

What happens on settlement day?

Settlement is when ownership of the property is officially transferred and the loan funds are released.
We work closely with your lender, solicitor and conveyancer to ensure everything runs smoothly and keep you informed every step of the way.

How often should I review my home loan?

We recommend reviewing your home loan every 12 to 24 months or whenever your circumstances change.
Regular reviews can help ensure you're still getting a competitive rate and the right loan features.

Will applying for a loan affect my credit score?

Multiple loan applications can impact your credit file.
That's why we carefully assess your situation first and recommend suitable lenders before submitting an application, helping you avoid unnecessary enquiries.

Ready to get started?

Book a chat with a Finance & Mortgage Broker at Premier Path Finance today.