Building vs. Buying New

Building a New Home?

There are actually two very different ways to buy one.

Many buyers assume they'll need a construction loan anytime they're purchasing a newly built home.

In reality, that's only true in certain situations.

If you're purchasing a home from a builder in one of their established communities—such as a production builder or planned neighborhood—you'll often finance your purchase with a traditional mortgage like a Conventional, FHA, or VA loan. Even though the home is brand new, the financing process is typically very similar to buying an existing home.

Construction loans are different.

They're designed for buyers building a truly custom home on land they already own or land they're purchasing separately. These loans finance the construction process itself before converting into permanent financing.

Understanding which path you're taking is one of the first—and most important—steps in choosing the right financing strategy.

Two Construction Paths

Which path are you actually on?

Path One

Buying from a Builder Community

Examples

  • Production builders
  • Master-planned communities
  • Builder-owned lots
  • Spec homes
  • Homes already under construction

Typically financed using

  • Conventional Loans
  • FHA Loans
  • VA Loans
  • USDA Loans (when eligible)
Learn About Buying a Home

Path Two

Building on Your Own Land

Examples

  • Custom home builders
  • Build on land you already own
  • Purchase land and build
  • Fully custom home design
  • Rural properties

Typically financed using

  • Construction-to-Permanent Loans
  • One-Time Close Construction Loans
Explore Construction Loans

Feature Corie Adams Lending Team

Experience Matters

565+

New Construction Homes Financed

  • More than 565 new construction homes financed

  • Experience working with both production builders and custom home builders

  • Deep understanding of builder timelines, inspections, draw schedules, contract structures, and construction financing

  • Guidance from contract signing through final closing

Construction Programs

Two paths for financing a build.

Single Loan, Two Phases

Construction-to-Permanent Loans

A single loan that funds the build and then converts to your permanent mortgage when the home is complete. Lock your rate up front and avoid the cost and risk of requalifying at the end.

Read the Kitchen Table Guide

One Closing, One Set of Fees

One-Time Close Construction

The cleanest path for most new-construction buyers — a single closing, a single underwrite, and one set of fees. You sign once, then we manage the draws while your home goes up.

Read the Kitchen Table Guide

Ready for your next chapter?

Let's start the conversation.

Building a home is exciting, but it comes with many decisions. I'd be happy to help you understand financing options, builder timelines, extended rate locks, and everything you'll need before signing a builder contract.

Every homebuying journey is different. Whether you're purchasing your first home, building your dream home, relocating to Lancaster County, refinancing, investing, or planning your next move, I'm here to help you make confident financial decisions.

You don't need to have everything figured out before reaching out. Sometimes the best first step is simply having a conversation.

  • Secure online application
  • Approximately 15 minutes to complete
  • Personally reviewed by Corie Adams
  • Personalized mortgage strategy
  • Same-business-day follow-up whenever possible
  • No pressure. No obligation. Just honest guidance.

Not quite ready?

Continue exploring my Homebuyer's Resource Library, Living in Lancaster County Guides, or Builder Resource Center. I'm here whenever you're ready.