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Chino Hills sits in a pocket of San Bernardino County where buildable lots still exist. That makes construction lending relevant here in a way it isn't in more built-out cities.
Building new gives you control over layout, finishes, and energy specs. But it requires a different financing approach than buying an existing home.
680+
Min Credit Score
20–25%
Down Payment
12 months
Typical Loan Term
Interest-only
During Construction
Required
Contractor Approval
Lenders treat construction loans as higher risk. Expect a minimum 680 credit score from most lenders, though some require 720 or higher.
Down payments typically run 20-25%. Lenders want to see detailed construction plans, a licensed contractor, and a firm project budget before approving.
Not every lender does construction loans. Most retail banks offer one product with tight guidelines. Wholesale lenders have more program variety.
SRK CAPITAL works with 200+ wholesale lenders. We find programs that fit your project type — whether that's a custom build, ADU, or major renovation.
The draw schedule is where most borrowers get tripped up. Funds release in stages as construction hits milestones — not as a lump sum.
Your contractor needs to be approved by the lender. Vet them early. A contractor who won't submit financials can kill your loan.
A bridge loan can fund a land purchase while you finalize plans. Hard money moves faster but costs more. Construction loans are purpose-built for the build phase.
Once construction wraps, you convert to a conventional or jumbo permanent mortgage. That conversion is built into a construction-to-permanent loan — one closing, not two.
San Bernardino County has specific permitting requirements. Chino Hills adds its own hillside grading and fire zone rules. Factor both into your timeline.
Permit delays push construction timelines out. Lenders set loan term limits — typically 12 months. Extensions exist but aren't guaranteed.
You draw funds in stages as building milestones are completed. At project completion, the loan converts to a permanent mortgage.
Most lenders require at least 680. Some programs targeting custom builds push that to 720 or higher.
Rarely. Most lenders require a licensed, lender-approved contractor. Owner-builder programs exist but are hard to find.
Typically 12 months. Your build needs to finish within that window or you'll need to request an extension.
No. You pay interest only on funds drawn during construction. Full payments start after conversion to permanent financing.
Yes. Local hillside and fire zone requirements can slow permit approvals. Build that buffer into your project schedule.
Construction Loans in Chino Hills