Question 1

Can construction costs be financed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Eligible construction costs can be fully financed on qualifying transactions through a draw schedule, subject to LTC and completed-value limits. 100% eligible construction financing is distinct from 100% total project financing — the borrower may still contribute toward land, closing costs, or reserves.

Question 2

Do I need permits before applying?

Accepted Answer

Completed plans and permits strengthen the submission. Some programs allow submission during pre-development with conditions, but a permitted, shovel-ready project moves faster and underwrites more cleanly.

Question 3

Can first-time builders be considered?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The First-Time Builder Program does not automatically disqualify investors without previous ground-up experience. A well-scoped project supported by an experienced general contractor can qualify.

Question 4

What's the difference between Maximum Leverage and Express Construction?

Accepted Answer

Maximum Leverage offers up to 95% LTC with 24-hour digital draws. Express offers up to 90% LTC with no appraisal and express closing as fast as 48 hours, at a slightly higher credit guideline (~680). They are separate programs with separate parameter blocks, never combined.

Question 5

How do construction draws work?

Accepted Answer

Construction capital is held back and released through milestone-based draws as completed work is inspected and verified — not disbursed as a lump sum at closing. On the core program, 24-hour digital inspections verify each phase before the next draw is released.

Question 6

Can construction financing be combined with Gap Funding?

Accepted Answer

Potentially. Eligible gap capital may help cover the equity contribution, closing costs, reserves, or construction float the primary loan does not cover. The primary lender's source-of-funds rules still control whether borrowed funds count toward required equity or reserves.

Question 7

Is up to 100% LTC available for ground-up construction?

Accepted Answer

Yes — up to 100% LTC may be available on qualifying programs through a fast-close structure that uses direct / in-house underwriting and a line-by-line construction budget review. New / first-time investors may be considered, and no prior construction experience is required on the applicable structure. Proof of liquidity and an entity borrowing structure are required. It is currently available in AZ, CO, DE, GA, MO, NJ, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, TX, and VA (Florida pending). Not every project qualifies; eligibility is confirmed during underwriting, not at application. If a property does not fit this structure geographically, the file is still evaluated against Green Fire's other Ground-Up programs.

Question 8

Can a new investor with no construction experience qualify?

Accepted Answer

Potentially. The applicable 100% LTC structure does not require prior construction experience and may consider new / first-time investors. A well-scoped project, a credible builder, proof of liquidity, and a realistic budget and exit all matter. Eligibility is confirmed during underwriting.

Question 9

How fast can the 100% LTC structure close, and how fast are draws?

Accepted Answer

Select fast-close programs may close as fast as 48 hours once required documentation is complete — not every transaction closes in 48 hours. Initial review may center on a Credit Authorization, Proof of Liquidity, and Budget / Scope of Work; plans, permits, insurance, entity documents, title, valuation, and other closing items may still be required depending on the project. Construction draws are generally 48–72 hours once properly submitted and verified; not every draw is guaranteed within that period.

Ground-Up Construction Loans for Real Estate Investors

Program at a Glance

Ways to structure this financing

Property types we build with

Permit requirements

How it works

Assemble the project

Submit the deal

Budget and capacity review

What to have ready

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Ground-Up Construction — Frequently Asked Questions

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