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Construction Loan Guides by State
Last updated: October 29, 2026.
Building a home works differently from state to state. Who can build, how permits and septic approvals work, who runs the closing, and how liens are filed all depend on where your lot is. Each state below has two guides: how to choose a construction-to-permanent lender, and what lenders and the state require before you build.
Key takeaways
- Each guide lists the state's builder licensing or registration rules, permit and code basics, septic and flood checks, closing customs, and lien rules.
- Every guide links to the state agencies and statutes it relies on.
- Rules change. Confirm details with the agency, your town or county, and your lender before you commit.
Which states have construction loan guides?
| State | Choosing a lender | Requirements | Lender list |
|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut | How to choose | Requirements | Not yet |
| Delaware | How to choose | Requirements | Not yet |
| Washington, DC | How to choose | Requirements | Washington, DC lenders |
| Florida | How to choose | Requirements | Florida lenders |
| Maine | How to choose | Requirements | Maine lenders |
| Maryland | How to choose | Requirements | Not yet |
| Massachusetts | How to choose | Requirements | Massachusetts lenders |
| New Hampshire | How to choose | Requirements | Not yet |
| New Jersey | How to choose | Requirements | New Jersey lenders |
| New York | How to choose | Requirements | New York lenders |
| North Carolina | How to choose | Requirements | North Carolina lenders |
| Pennsylvania | How to choose | Requirements | Pennsylvania lenders |
| Rhode Island | How to choose | Requirements | Rhode Island lenders |
| South Carolina | How to choose | Requirements (Upstate SC) | South Carolina lenders |
| Vermont | How to choose | Requirements | Vermont lenders |
| Virginia | How to choose | Requirements | Virginia lenders |
How should I use these guides?
- Start with the requirements guide for your state to see what has to happen before and during the build.
- Use the lender guide to build a checklist and compare lenders on the same project.
- Ask each lender for a Loan Estimate, and check the lender on NMLS Consumer Access.
New to construction financing? Start with one-time close vs. two-time close and how construction loan draws work.
Frequently asked questions
Do construction loan rules differ by state?
Yes. Lender programs are similar across states, but builder licensing, permits, septic approvals, closing customs, transfer taxes, and lien rules are set by each state and locality.
Is my state missing?
We add states as we finish checking each one against primary sources. The general guides on this blog still apply anywhere.
Do these guides recommend specific lenders?
No. They explain what to compare and what each state requires. You can get connected with lenders who offer construction financing where you are building.
Ready to build?
Tell us where you are building and what you plan to build. Get connected at My Construction Path, and we'll connect you with lenders who offer construction financing in your state.
My Construction Path is not a lender and does not make loans or credit decisions. Not all borrowers will qualify. Equal Housing Opportunity. Requirements vary by lender, loan program, and location. This article is for general education and is not a commitment to lend. It is not a quote of rates, payments, or loan terms.