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Belvedere's hillside lots and waterfront views attract builders and custom-home buyers year-round. The Marin County Fair returns this July with new exhibits and entertainment, drawing attention to the region's growth.
Most construction projects in Belvedere range from $1,200,000 to $2,500,000 in total cost. Lenders advance funds in stages as work progresses, so you only pay interest on the amount drawn.
20–25% of project cost
Typical Down Payment
12–24 months typical
Construction Timeline
680 FICO
Minimum Credit Score
30–45 days
Closing Timeline
Construction Loans in Belvedere
Construction loans require a solid credit score—typically 680 or higher—and proof of funds for the down payment. Lenders want to see 20–25% down on the total project cost.
You'll need detailed plans, a contractor bid, and a timeline from your builder. Lenders review the architect's drawings and construction schedule before approval. Most require proof that you own the land free and clear or have significant equity in it.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect construction loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in Belvedere.
Belvedere's hillside lots and waterfront views attract builders and custom-home buyers year-round. The Marin County Fair returns this July with new exhibits and entertainment, drawing attention to the region's growth.
Most construction projects in Belvedere range from $1,200,000 to $2,500,000 in total cost. Lenders advance funds in stages as work progresses, so you only pay interest on the amount drawn.
Construction loans require a solid credit score—typically 680 or higher—and proof of funds for the down payment. Lenders want to see 20–25% down on the total project cost.
Construction lending in California is tighter than purchase or refinance lending. Fewer lenders offer construction loans, and those who do impose stricter underwriting.
Closing typically takes 30–45 days once you're approved. The lender will conduct periodic inspections during construction to verify work quality and release funds.
Construction loans make sense in Belvedere when you've found the right lot and have a clear vision. The county's median household income of $142,785 supports custom builds in the $1,500,000 to $2,200,000 range.
The real advantage of construction financing appears when you want to control every detail—materials, layout, finishes. If you're comfortable with a 12–24 month build timeline and can handle the interest-only payments during construction, this path works.
A standard purchase loan closes in 21–30 days and carries no construction risk. Construction loans take 30–45 days to close and require ongoing inspections. If the home is already built, purchase financing is simpler and cheaper in fees.
Construction loans let you customize everything from the foundation up. Purchase loans lock you into what's already there. Choose construction if you want control; choose purchase if you want speed and simplicity.
New trails opened at Hawk Hill in the Marin Headlands, winding through the decommissioned Nike Missile Site. These outdoor amenities appeal to buyers building custom homes who want immediate access to hiking and views.
Super Duper opened a third Marin location in Corte Madera, signaling restaurant growth across the county. As Belvedere builds out, dining and retail options nearby improve. Builders and buyers here benefit from an increasingly active local economy.
Most lenders require 20–25% down on the total project cost. On a $1,500,000 build, that's $300,000–$375,000 at closing. Some lenders may accept 15% for strong borrowers with excellent credit and reserves.
Yes. You pay interest only on the amount the lender has disbursed so far. As construction progresses and the lender advances more funds, your interest payment grows.
Most construction lenders require a 680 FICO score minimum. Scores above 700 improve your rate and terms. Some lenders may go lower for borrowers with strong income and reserves, but 680 is the typical floor.
Approval typically takes 30–45 days once you submit plans, contractor bid, and proof of funds. The lender reviews the architect's drawings and builder's track record.
Most lenders require you to own the land free and clear or have substantial equity in it. A few lenders will finance land and construction together, but rates are higher and down payments are steeper.