
Single Close Construction Loans in Newark, OH: Loans Available
Building your dream home in Newark, OH can be daunting. But there’s a way to make the process easier: single close construction loans. These loans combine construction and permanent financing into one loan. Here’s what they are, how they work and why you should consider.
What is a Single Close Loan? Understanding the Permanent Mortgage
A single close construction loan, also known as a construction-to-permanent loan, is a mortgage that finances the construction of your home and the long-term mortgage to pay for it after completion. Instead of having to get two separate loans for the construction and the mortgage, a single close loan combines both construction financing and a long-term home loan into one transaction, which means less paperwork, fewer fees and a simpler process.
How Single Close Construction Loans Work
A single close construction loan is a type of loan that allows homebuyers to finance both the construction of their new home and the long-term mortgage with a single loan. This streamlined process means you only have to go through one closing, significantly reducing the time and effort it takes to build and move into your new home. The loan process involves a single appraisal, loan originator, and closing process, making it much simpler than traditional methods.
Here’s a step-by-step look at how it works:
- Pre-approval: Homebuyers are pre-approved for a single close construction loan based on their creditworthiness and financial situation.
- Appraisal: An appraiser evaluates the value of the land and the proposed construction project.
- Loan origination: The lender originates the loan and prepares the necessary documents.
- Closing: The homebuyer signs the loan documents, and the loan is closed.
- Construction phase: The lender disburses funds to the builder as construction progresses.
- Permanent mortgage: Once construction is complete, the loan converts to a permanent mortgage.
By consolidating these steps into a single loan, you can begin construction with confidence, knowing that your financing is secure from start to finish.
Single Close Loan Features and Closing Costs
- One Application: With a single close loan, you only have to go through the loan approval process once. No need to reapply after construction is complete, saving time and hassle.
- Locked Interest Rates: Since the loan converts to a permanent mortgage after construction is complete, you can lock in your interest rate before construction even starts. Protect yourself from rate increases during construction.
- Simplicity: Since everything is in one loan, you avoid the complexity of multiple loans. One closing, one set of fees, one set of documents.
- Interest Only During Construction: During the construction phase you will only pay interest on the amount of the loan that has been disbursed. Once the home is complete and you move in, the loan converts to a standard mortgage with principal and interest payments.

Single Close Construction Loan Benefits in Newark, OH
Newark is a growing community with a mix of suburban and rural living, rich history and strong community. If you’re building a home here a single close construction loan can offer:
- Cost Savings: By not having to get two separate loans you save on closing costs and lender fees. And by locking in your interest rate early you can save over the life of the loan.
- Simpler Process: One loan and one closing makes the entire home building process easier to manage, so you can focus on your project not the financing.
- Custom Home Flexibility: Whether you want to build in the heart of Newark or on the outskirts in a more rural area, a single close construction loan gives you the flexibility to finance the build of your custom home to your specifications.
Additionally, single close construction loans are accessible for low- and moderate-income buyers, emphasizing that these loans require lower down payments and lower credit scores compared to conventional loan options.
Comparison to Traditional Construction Loans
Traditional construction loans typically involve two separate loans: one for the construction phase and another for the permanent mortgage. This means you have to go through two separate closings, which can be both time-consuming and costly. Each closing comes with its own set of fees, paperwork, and potential delays.
In contrast, a single close construction loan combines the construction loan and permanent mortgage into a single loan. This eliminates the need for two separate closings, reducing both the time and cost associated with traditional construction loans. With a single close construction loan, you benefit from a streamlined process, fewer fees, and the convenience of managing just one loan.
How to Qualify for a Single Close Construction Loan: Minimum Credit Score Requirements
Qualifying for a single close construction loan is similar to qualifying for any other loan. Lenders will look at:
- Credit Score: You’ll need a good credit score to get the best rates and terms.
- Income and Employment History: Stable income and employment history is important to determine your loan eligibility.
- Down Payment: Most single close construction loans require a down payment, 10% to 20% though this can vary by loan type and lender requirements.
- Construction Plans: Lenders will also want to review your construction plans, cost estimates, timelines and builder credentials.

Government-Backed Loan Options
The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offer government-backed loan options for single close construction loans, providing more lenient credit score requirements and lower down payment options.
The FHA One-Time Close Loan is a government-backed loan that combines a construction loan and permanent mortgage into a single loan. This loan requires a minimum down payment of 3.5% and a minimum credit score of 580, making it accessible to many borrowers.
The VA One-Time Close Loan is designed for veterans, servicemembers, and eligible military associates. This loan offers zero down payment options and more lenient credit score requirements, making it an excellent choice for those who have served our country.
Local Loan Options in Newark, OH
Homebuyers in Newark, OH, may be eligible for local loan options that offer more favorable terms and conditions. The Licking County Transit and the City of Newark provide various loan programs and incentives for homebuyers.
The Licking County Transit offers a loan program that provides financing for homebuyers who purchase homes in Licking County. This program features competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms, making it an attractive option for local residents.
The City of Newark also offers a loan program that provides financing for homebuyers within the city. Similar to the Licking County program, it offers competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms, helping to make homeownership more accessible for Newark residents.
Building a Home on Your Own Lot
Building a home on your own lot can be a cost-effective and efficient way to create your dream home. With a single close construction loan, you can finance both the construction of your new home and the land purchase (if necessary) with a single loan.
The process typically involves the following steps:
- Land purchase: Homebuyers purchase the land on which they intend to build their new home.
- Loan application: Homebuyers apply for a single close construction loan to finance the construction of their new home.
- Appraisal: An appraiser evaluates the value of the land and the proposed construction project.
- Loan origination: The lender originates the loan and prepares the necessary documents.
- Closing: The homebuyer signs the loan documents, and the loan is closed.
- Construction phase: The lender disburses funds to the builder as construction progresses.
- Permanent mortgage: Once construction is complete, the loan converts to a permanent mortgage.
- One of the significant advantages of this approach is that you can use your land equity as a down payment for the loan, reducing the amount of cash required upfront. Additionally, working with a lender experienced in single close construction loans can help you navigate the process and ensure you qualify for the best loan options available.

Single Close Construction Loan Options
In Newark, OH there are several single close construction loan options:
- FHA Construction-to-Perm Loans: Government backed loans with more lenient credit requirements and lower down payment, great for many borrowers.
- VA Construction-to-Perm Loans: If you’re a veteran or active-duty service member a VA loan can offer great terms, no down payment and no PMI.
- Conventional Construction-to-Perm Loans: These offer the most flexibility and are best for borrowers with good financials and good credit score.
Working with the Right Lender
Choosing the right lender is crucial to a successful home building project. Look for a lender who has experience with construction loans and can guide you through the process. As a seasoned mortgage expert in new construction financing I, Bob Fabian, can help you build your dream home in Newark, OH. Whether it’s your first home or forever home I can help you navigate the loan process, lock in a great rate and keep your project on track financially.
Conclusion
Building a home in Newark, OH is fun and financing doesn’t have to be hard. With a single close construction loan you can simplify the process, save money and get the funds you need with one application and one closing. By working with an experienced lender, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your home’s financing is taken care of so you can focus on building your dream home. Ready to get started or have questions about single close construction loans? Reach out today!








