Can VA Loans Be Used for New Construction Homes?

 

For many Veterans and Active Duty service members, the dream isn’t just buying a house—it’s building a brand-new one that fits their family’s needs. A common question is:

Can VA loans be used for new construction homes?

The short answer: Yes, VA loans can be used for new construction—but there are important rules, requirements, and lender limitations you need to understand first.

VA Loans and New Construction: The Basics

  • Eligible Use: VA loans can finance the construction of a new primary residence.

  • Approved Builders Required: The builder must be VA-registered and provide warranties, proper licenses, and insurance.

  • Lender Restrictions: Not all lenders offer VA construction loans. Some require you to use short-term (interim) financing during construction, then refinance into a VA loan when the home is complete.

  • Occupancy Rule: The VA requires the borrower to occupy the property as their primary residence once construction is finished.

  • Funding Fee & Entitlement: Standard VA funding fees and entitlement rules apply.

Types of VA Construction Financing

  1. One-Time Close VA Construction Loan

    • Combines construction financing and permanent mortgage into one loan.

    • Easier since you don’t need to re-qualify or pay multiple closing costs.

    • Not offered by every lender.

  2. Two-Time Close (Interim + VA Loan)

    • Use a short-term construction loan to fund building.

    • Once the home is complete, refinance into a VA purchase loan.

    • Requires two closings, which means slightly more fees and paperwork.

Step-by-Step Guide: Building a Home with a VA Loan

Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Initial Vision & Prequalification

  • Meet with a VA-savvy lender to confirm eligibility and entitlement.

  • Get prequalified to understand your budget, including how much house you can afford with your VA benefits.

2. Choose the Right Builder

  • Select a builder who is VA-approved. They must provide:

    • A VA builder ID number (your lender helps verify this).

    • A one-year VA-required builder’s warranty.

    • Proof of proper licensing and liability insurance.

    • If your builder is not on the VA approved list there is a process to getting them added.

3. Plans, Permits & Appraisal

  • Finalize construction plans and submit them for VA approval.

  • Local building permits must be secured.

  • The VA will order an appraisal based on the proposed construction (sometimes called “plans and specs appraisal”).

4. Construction Financing

  • Depending on the lender:

    • One-time close loan: The VA loan funds construction directly.

    • Two-time close loan: An interim construction loan covers the build, then it’s refinanced into a VA loan.

5. Progress Inspections & Draws

  • Funds are disbursed in phases (“draws”) as construction milestones are met.

  • Inspections confirm that the builder is following the approved plans.

6. Final Inspection & Certificate of Occupancy

  • Once construction is complete, the VA requires a final inspection.

  • A certificate of occupancy (CO) from the local jurisdiction is also needed.

7. Loan Conversion or Closing

  • With a one-time close: your construction loan automatically converts into permanent VA financing.

  • With a two-time close: you refinance into your VA loan at this stage.

8. Move In & Make It Home

  • After closing, you can officially move into your new home.

  • VA occupancy rules require you to establish the home as your primary residence within a reasonable time (typically 60 days).

Tips for Success

  • Work with a VA-experienced lender: Many lenders don’t handle VA construction loans, so start with one who does.

  • Have reserves set aside: Even though VA loans are known for zero down payment, construction projects can come with unexpected costs.

  • Ask about builder requirements early: This avoids delays later in the process.

  • Plan for timelines: Construction loans can take longer than resale purchases—factor that into your housing plans.

Bottom Line: Yes, VA loans can absolutely be used for new construction homes—but it’s not as simple as buying a resale property. By choosing the right lender and builder, and following VA’s rules step-by-step, you can turn your vision of a custom-built home into reality using your earned VA benefits.

About Between Two Doors

Between Two Doors is a podcast where I talk with Realtors about their journey, aiming to connect home buyers and sellers with agents on a more personal level. I ask "right brain" questions that go beyond transactions, focusing on the experiences, values, and passions that make these professionals great at what they do.

Listen to more episodes at: https://www.betweentwodoors.com

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Premier Lending, Inc.
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