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Calistoga sits at the north end of Napa Valley. Land is scarce, and existing inventory is tight — so building makes sense for many buyers.
This is wine country. Lots here carry premium prices, and the homes buyers want to build reflect that. Construction loans need to be sized accordingly.
680+
Min Credit Score
20-25%
Down Payment
12-18 Months
Build Phase Term
Yes
GC License Required
Variable During Build
Rate Type
Construction Loans in Calistoga
Construction loans are harder to qualify for than standard purchase loans. Lenders want at least 680 credit, often higher, and 20-25% down is standard.
You also need a licensed general contractor and approved plans before funding. Lenders underwrite the project, not just the borrower.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect construction loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in Calistoga.
Calistoga sits at the north end of Napa Valley. Land is scarce, and existing inventory is tight — so building makes sense for many buyers.
This is wine country. Lots here carry premium prices, and the homes buyers want to build reflect that. Construction loans need to be sized accordingly.
Construction loans are harder to qualify for than standard purchase loans. Lenders want at least 680 credit, often higher, and 20-25% down is standard.
Not every lender does construction loans. Most retail banks pull back on them — they're complex and require active draw management.
Wholesale lenders we work with have dedicated construction divisions. That matters. A lender who does this daily moves faster and fumbles less.
The biggest mistake I see: borrowers locking a contractor before locking financing. Get the loan term sheet first. Then hire the GC.
Construction-to-permanent loans save you a second closing. One loan, one set of costs. For Calistoga projects, that's thousands in savings.
Bridge loans can fund a land purchase fast, but they don't cover construction costs. You'd need a separate construction loan after.
Hard money is another option — quicker to close, looser requirements — but the rates are significantly higher. For a long build in Calistoga, that cost adds up fast.
Napa County has strict permitting. Calistoga builds can take longer to get approved than in other California counties. Factor that into your timeline.
Wildfire zone designations affect insurance requirements here. Lenders will require fire insurance before the first draw. Get that lined up early.
You draw funds in stages as construction hits milestones. At completion, the loan converts to a permanent mortgage.
Most lenders want 680 or higher. Projects in high-cost areas like Calistoga may require 700+. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
Yes. Lenders require a licensed GC and approved plans. You can't close without them.
Yes, but agricultural zoning in Napa can limit what you build. Confirm allowable use with the county before you apply.
It's one loan that covers the build phase and then converts to a standard mortgage. You avoid a second closing and second set of fees.
Typically 12-18 months for the build phase. Calistoga permitting delays can cut into that — build in buffer time.