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Construction Loans in Tiburon
What's the difference between a construction loan and a mortgage?
A construction loan funds the build in monthly draws as work progresses. Once complete, you refinance into a permanent mortgage. A standard mortgage funds a finished home in one closing.
01
Tiburon's real estate market centers on waterfront properties and custom builds. A private Marin mountaintop opening to the public signals infrastructure investment that supports long-term home values for new construction buyers.
Construction loans fund the build phase in monthly draws as work progresses. Once complete, you refinance into a permanent mortgage at market rates.
680+
Minimum Credit Score
10-25%
Down Payment Range
6-12 months
Typical Lock Period
$1,249,125
2026 Conforming Limit
02
Construction loans require solid credit (typically 680+ FICO) and proof of income. Marin County's median household income of $142,785 supports purchases well into the $800,000 to $1,000,000 range depending on down payment and reserves.
Lenders want to see 6-12 months of cash reserves after closing. Down payments range from 10% to 25% depending on the lender and your financial profile.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect construction loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in Tiburon.
Tiburon's real estate market centers on waterfront properties and custom builds. A private Marin mountaintop opening to the public signals infrastructure investment that supports long-term home values for new construction buyers.
Construction loans fund the build phase in monthly draws as work progresses. Once complete, you refinance into a permanent mortgage at market rates.
Construction loans require solid credit (typically 680+ FICO) and proof of income. Marin County's median household income of $142,785 supports purchases well into the $800,000 to $1,000,000 range depending on down payment and reserves.
Rate check
Tell us the price range, down payment and credit range you are working with. We compare every lender we work with and show you the options side by side.
03
Construction lending in California has tightened since 2024, but portfolio lenders and credit unions still compete actively. Most lenders require a detailed construction budget and timeline before approval.
Broker-based construction loans often close faster than retail bank options. Lock periods typically run 6-12 months to cover the build phase.
04
Construction loans make sense in Tiburon when you're building custom on a lot you own or control. The conforming limit of $1,249,125 in 2026 covers most Tiburon builds.
If you're buying an existing home, skip construction financing entirely. A standard purchase mortgage closes faster and costs less in fees.
05
Construction loans fund the build in monthly draws as work progresses. A purchase mortgage funds a completed home in one lump sum at closing.
If you own the land free and clear, construction financing preserves cash for other investments. If you need to sell first, a purchase mortgage is simpler and faster.
06
A private Marin mountaintop opening to the public for the first time in decades creates new hiking access. That infrastructure investment signals long-term appeal for waterfront and hillside properties in Tiburon.
Point Reyes Station's restaurant scene is expanding with ambitious new seafood venues. Proximity to these dining upgrades adds lifestyle value to Tiburon properties.
07
Proposed federal legislation would allow Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to purchase construction loans. If enacted, this could expand lender competition and lower rates for conforming construction loans.
Today, portfolio lenders and credit unions carry most construction volume in California. Broker-based programs remain competitive for borrowers with solid credit and adequate reserves.
FAQ
A construction loan funds the build in monthly draws as work progresses. Once complete, you refinance into a permanent mortgage. A standard mortgage funds a finished home in one closing.
Yes — most lenders require you to own the land free and clear or have it under contract. Some portfolio lenders accept land with a first mortgage if you have substantial equity.
Construction loan closings typically take 17-21 days. The permanent mortgage closes separately once the home is finished, usually another 30 days after final inspection.
Your construction rate locks for 6-12 months, covering the build phase. When you refinance into the permanent loan, you get the market rate at that time.
Most lenders require 15-25% down on construction loans. The conforming limit of $1,249,125 in 2026 applies, so homes above that need jumbo construction financing.
Programs for first-time buyers that allow lower down payments and more forgiving credit and income rules.
Explore refinancing options to lower your rate, tap equity, or switch loan terms.
SRK CAPITAL in Marin County
Our team of licensed mortgage brokers works Marin County every week. Tell us where you are in the process and we will map out the loan, the timeline and the money you need at closing, with no obligation.
What working with us looks like
Licensed mortgage brokers
You talk with a broker, not a call center, from the first question to closing day.
17-21 day typical close
Most purchase loans close in 17-21 days once your paperwork is in.
Every county in California
We work across the state, including Marin County, so local limits and rules are already familiar.
Financing solutions for rental properties, fix-and-flip projects, and real estate portfolios.
Mortgage programs with alternative income documentation for business owners and freelancers.
Federally insured or guaranteed programs (FHA, VA, USDA) that let lenders accept lower credit scores and smaller down payments.
Traditional mortgage options meeting standard lending guidelines with various term structures.
Alternative lending programs for borrowers who need flexible documentation or unique loan structures.
This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Mortgage rates, terms, and program availability can change and vary by borrower and property. Consult a licensed mortgage professional for guidance on your scenario.