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Construction Loans

Construction Loans in Texas

Ground-up construction financing for Texas real estate investors. Fund new builds from lot purchase through completion.

Why Texas Is a Strong Market for New Construction

Texas offers real estate investors a unique combination of no state income tax, strong job growth, and relatively affordable entry points compared to coastal markets. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Houston, and San Antonio continue to see population influxes that drive rental demand. Texas is one of the highest-volume states for DSCR loan originations, with investors drawn to the strong cash flow potential of single-family and small multifamily properties.

Texas offers real estate investors significant opportunities in new construction - from build-to-rent single-family homes to infill development in growing metro areas. A construction loan lets you finance ground-up projects with draw-based funding, so you only pay interest on what's been disbursed. Sinai Capital shops your Texas construction deal to 50+ lenders to secure the best rate and highest leverage for your project.

Texas Real Estate Market at a Glance

Median Home Price

$340,000

Median Rent

$1,850

Avg Cap Rate

6.5%

Foreclosure Type

Non-Judicial

State Income Tax

None

Landlord Friendly

Yes

Houston and Dallas-Fort Worth are consistently ranked in the top 5 markets nationwide for real estate investor loan volume, with average DSCR ratios well above the 1.0 minimum threshold.

Top Texas Markets for New Construction

Houston, TX

Active construction market with strong demand for new builds

Dallas, TX

Active construction market with strong demand for new builds

San Antonio, TX

Active construction market with strong demand for new builds

Austin, TX

Active construction market with strong demand for new builds

Fort Worth, TX

Active construction market with strong demand for new builds

Construction Loan Requirements in Texas

Loan Terms12-24 months
Loan-to-Cost (LTC)Up to 85%
Interest Rates9% - 14% (varies by lender and experience)
Minimum Credit Score680+ (some lenders accept 660)
Time to Close21-30 days
Draw Schedule4-6 draws tied to construction milestones
Plans & PermitsRequired - architectural plans, building permits, and contractor bids
Loan Amounts$150,000 - $10,000,000+
Property TypesSingle-family, townhomes, multifamily, mixed-use
Experience1-2 completed projects preferred (not always required)

Texas Lending Regulations & Tax Considerations

Foreclosure & Lending Laws

Texas uses a non-judicial foreclosure process, which is faster and less expensive for lenders - typically completing in 60-90 days. This lender-friendly environment contributes to competitive DSCR loan rates in the state. Texas has clear landlord-tenant laws that generally favor property owners.

Tax Implications for Investors

Texas has no state income tax, but property tax rates are among the highest in the nation, averaging around 1.80% of assessed value. Investors should factor property taxes into their DSCR calculations carefully, as higher taxes reduce net operating income.

How to Get a Construction Loan in Texas

1

Submit your project details

Fill out a quick pre-qualification form with your Texas construction project details - lot info, project scope, budget, timeline, and contractor. Takes about 2 minutes. No credit pull required.

2

We shop 50+ lenders for your best terms

We send your deal to our network of 50+ lenders who finance Texas construction projects. Each lender competes to offer you the best rate, highest LTC, and most favorable draw schedule.

3

Choose your terms and break ground

Pick the offer that works best for your Texas build. We handle the paperwork and push your deal to closing. Most construction loans close in 21-30 days so you can start building.

Texas Construction Loan FAQ

What is a construction loan for real estate investors in Texas?+
A construction loan in Texas is short-term financing designed to fund the ground-up construction of investment properties. Unlike a traditional mortgage, funds are disbursed in stages (called draws) as construction milestones are completed. These loans typically cover 12-24 months and can finance everything from lot acquisition through project completion.
How do construction loan draws work in Texas?+
Construction loan draws in Texas are disbursed on a schedule tied to project milestones - for example, foundation, framing, rough-in, and completion. After each phase is finished, a third-party inspector verifies the work, and the lender releases the next draw. You only pay interest on the funds that have been disbursed, not the full loan amount. Most lenders require 4-6 draws over the life of the project.
Can I finance the lot purchase with a construction loan in Texas?+
Yes, many construction lenders in Texas will finance the lot purchase as part of the construction loan. Typically, the lot cost is included in the total project budget and factored into the loan-to-cost (LTC) ratio. Some lenders will finance up to 85% of the combined lot and construction costs. If you already own the lot free and clear, you can often use your equity as part of your down payment.
What are construction loan rates in Texas?+
Construction loan rates in Texas typically range from 9% to 14%, depending on your experience, credit score, project scope, and loan-to-cost ratio. Rates are higher than permanent financing because construction loans carry more risk for lenders. Working with a broker like Sinai Capital who shops your deal to 50+ lenders helps you find the most competitive rate for your Texas project.
Do I need construction experience to get a construction loan in Texas?+
Experience requirements vary by lender. Some Texas construction lenders require at least 1-2 completed projects, while others will work with first-time builders if you have a licensed general contractor, detailed plans, and strong financials. Having an experienced GC on your team significantly improves your approval odds and can help you secure better rates.
Can I use a construction loan for a build-to-rent project in Texas?+
Yes, build-to-rent (BTR) construction loans are available in Texas. These loans finance the construction of properties you intend to hold as rentals rather than sell. Many lenders offer a construction-to-permanent loan that converts into long-term DSCR financing once the property is completed and leased, saving you the cost of refinancing into a separate permanent loan.

Ready to Finance Your Texas Construction Project?

We shop your Texas deal to 50+ lenders to find you the best rate and highest leverage. No credit pull. No commitment. Takes 2 minutes.