CONSTRUCTION LOAN BASICS
...... a couple dozen draws, until you realize that there is a service charge attached to every draw. For instance, every time the bank releases a draw, you have to notify them a few days in advance. The bank sends out an inspector to verify that the promised work was performed. Then they order a Title Search to verify that you haven't had any liens put on your property since the last draw (this costs about $125 each time).''
This leads us to the next issue that pertains especially to building a log home. Normally, banks release a draw after the work has been completed. However, log home manufacturers require COD when the logs are delivered (or ideally the day before). Historically this had been a bone of contention between the banks and manufacturers, until certain banks took the lead and set up accounts directly with the log home companies. This expedited the whole process. These direct deposits become draws on your construction loan.''
Benefits Of A Business LoanThere are many benefits in choosing a business loan, some of which are listed below: What's the fastest way of raising money for your ..... EXAMPLE: In our case, we ordered a total of 11 draws. On settlement of the construction loan, the bank started us with about $38,000 for misc. expenses. We used much of this to bridge the gap between draws (the contractors want to get paid regularly). There was a draw for the Log Kit deposit. There was a draw for our Superior Walls precast foundation (another direct deposit). Another draw paid for the COD log delivery; another draw paid for the window delivery.''
Then things got more tricky, because the next draw covered the well and septic, which had to be completed first. Once the log walls were raised another draw came, another when the "weathered-in shell" was complete, and another draw when the mechanicals were installed. The last draw came at the end of the project, but the bank wouldn't release the money until we had stained the house and planted grass seed. They wanted to make sure the house was ready for sale.'
With luck, you won't be delayed by weather or on-site errors, which could derail your whole plan. However, if you don't have some extra money set aside, your contractors might quit working until they get paid, knowing full well that you won't get paid until the work is finished. Coffee and donuts help to keep relations smooth, but nothing works like cash.
And remember: if by some miracle you don't use all the money you requested in the construction loan, you can always give the rest back. So don't cut corners. Estimate high, spend less, and you just might have enough left over for that luxury item you always wanted.
About the Author About the author: Mercedes Hayes is a Hiawatha Log Home dealer and also a Realtor in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. She designed her own log home which was featured in the 2004 Floor Plan Guide of Log Home Living magazine. You can learn more about log homes by visiting www.JerseyLogHomes.com.
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