Ground-Up Construction Loans in Colorado

Aerial view of Colorado residential neighborhoods

Building a spec home, a duplex or a rental from the ground up takes a different kind of loan. I'm Dan, and I help Colorado investors and small builders find construction financing that fits the project, from the lot to the final inspection.

Last updated October 2026

How a construction loan works

A construction loan pays for the build in stages. You don't get all the money at once. The lender releases draws as each phase is finished and inspected, like the foundation, framing and drywall.

Most construction loans are short-term and interest-only. You pay interest only on the money drawn so far. When the build is done, you sell the property or refinance into a long-term loan.

Some lenders can also help with the lot. If you already own the land, the equity in it may count toward your down payment.

What lenders look at

  • Your plans, budget and build schedule

  • Permits, or how close you are to having them

  • Who is building it, and their track record

  • The value of the finished property

  • Your credit and the cash you'll bring

  • Your exit plan: sell, or refinance and hold as a rental

Why builders work with HiFLO

  • Written fee sheet before you pay anything. My broker fee is 1 to 1.5 points, with no surprises. See every cost →

  • Free deal pre-check before any appraisal is ordered.

  • One contact, start to finish: you work with me, not a call center.

I'm a former engineer and an investor who manages my own projects, so plans, budgets and draw schedules are familiar ground. Keeping it as a rental when it's done? I can help you plan the refinance into a DSCR rental loan from the start. Business-purpose loans only; not for a home you'll live in.

Where I lend

I help investors in Greeley, Fort Collins, Loveland, Windsor, Evans, Johnstown, Denver and across Colorado.

Common questions

Do I need permits before a construction loan closes?
Most lenders want approved plans and permits in place, or very close, before closing. I can tell you what a specific lender needs after the free pre-check.

Can I be my own general contractor?
Some lenders allow it if you have building experience. Others require a licensed builder. I'll match you with a lender whose rules fit your situation.

Will a construction loan pay for the land?
Sometimes. Some lenders fund part of the lot purchase. If you already own the lot, its equity can often count toward your down payment.

What does a construction loan cost?
You'll have the lender's rate and points, inspection and draw fees, normal closing costs, and my broker fee. Everything is on a written fee sheet before you pay anything.

Ready to talk about your build? Call Dan at (970) 680-0246 or schedule a call.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Loan terms vary by lender and by deal.