Construction loan

Renovating or building your dream home? Our construction loan could be right for you.

Building a new home can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be a complex and expensive undertaking. A home construction loan is a type of loan specifically designed to help you finance the cost of building a new home. These loans are typically used to cover the costs of materials, labour and other expenses associated with building a new home.

Read on to find out more about the different types of home construction loans available, the process of obtaining a loan, current rates, and what you need to know to make an informed decision about financing your new home construction project.

Features

Funds withdrawn in stages, as you receive progress payment requests

Only pay interest on the funds drawn down

Free multiple offset accounts

Interest only repayments for construction period (principal & interest repayments thereafter)

A low establishment fee

Rates

Rate
% p.a.
Interest rate
Rate
% p.a.
Comparison rate
Apply if you

✓ Are at least 18 years of age

✓ Are a citizen or permanent resident of Australia

✓ Are currently in paid employment

✓ Have not been bankrupt

Whats next?

As your application progresses, you'll be kept up to date with email notifications and calls from your dedicated home loan specialist.

Enquire now

Why us?

We're an award-winning customer-owned bank, putting people and community before profit. Our primary focus is to support the needs of our customers. We offer a wide range of banking products and services to ensure that our customers receive the right solution for their financial goals. This customer-focused attitude extends far beyond just the products we offer. With competitive interest rates, advanced security measures and online and mobile banking services, Qudos Bank is a smart choice for those looking for a reliable bank that prioritises customer experience.

"Excellent customer service and very smooth transfer of mortgage from other bank to Qudos."

Excellent customer service and very easy to talk to and ask questions. Smooth process transferring mortgage over and fixing rate. Excellent response time - very quick and easy to get a hold of an actual person. Highly recommend.

5 stars

Bec, NSW
from ProductReview.com.au

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Home Construction Loans FAQs

Got questions? We've got answers.

What is a construction home loan?

A construction home loan is a type of mortgage loan that is used to finance the construction of a new home or renovation. The loan is typically used to pay for the cost of the land, the cost of the construction, and the cost of any associated fees and permits.

Generally, the loan is dispersed in stages, with funds being released as the construction progresses. Once the home is completed, the home construction loan is converted into a traditional mortgage loan.

Find out more about the different types of home loans in our home loan comparison page.

What is the difference between ‘fixed price’ and ‘cost plus’?

The terms ‘fixed price’ and ‘cost plus’ refer to the method by which the cost of the construction is determined.

A fixed price contract, also known as a ‘lump sum’ contract, is a contract in which the borrower and the builder agree on a set price for the construction of the home. The builder takes on the risk if costs of materials rise beyond the costs estimated when providing the tender to the borrower for acceptance.

Borrowers should read their building contracts carefully and ensure that they are vetted by a solicitor if there is anything that is not understood before signing.

Not all banks will consider finance for a “cost plus” contract due to the variable nature of the construction costs.

What’s the difference between ‘structural’ and ‘non-structural’?

The terms ‘structural’ and ‘non-structural’ refer to the specific elements of the construction project that the loan will be used to fund.

A construction loan will generally be used to fund the cost of a new home construction or major renovation. Items that would indicate a major renovation are altering the foundation, adding or changing beams, roofing, columns, and load-bearing walls. These elements are essential to the structural integrity of the building, and the loan is typically used to ensure that these elements are constructed to meet specific building codes and regulations. Construction loans may have a higher interest rate due to the lender considering it a higher risk.

A regular mortgage loan, on the other hand, will typically be used to fund the cost of non-structural elements or a small renovation, including painting or cosmetic repair of walls, floor covering, ceilings, and finishes. These elements are not necessarily essential to the structural integrity or habitability of the building. This type of home loan might have a lower interest rate as the risk is considered lower, and is generally not subject to progress payments.

How often are progress payments made?

The frequency of progress payments for a construction home loan are generally aligned to the stages in the building contract. As the builder meets certain milestones in the construction contract, the bank will release funds to compensate the builder for the work already completed.

How is the loan drawn down?

The loan funds will be released progressively in line with your building contract and its payment schedule. These payments are known as “progress payments.” All progress payments will be paid directly to your builder upon your approval.

If you’re contributing funds to the construction, these funds will also need to be paid in line with your building contract and its payment schedule and are generally required to be paid before the bank will advance funds from the loan.

What documents do I need to supply Qudos Bank?

Qudos Bank will consider construction loans for borrowers engaging in “Fixed Price” Building Contracts.

You’ll need to provide us with the following documents:

  • Copy of the Builder’s all risk insurance policy
  • Copy of the Builder Home Owners warranty scheme policy (per state jurisdiction)
  • Copy of the Builder’s licence
  • Copy of the executed Fixed Price HIA/MBA Building Contract, which must include all components of construction
  • Copy of Council approved plans and specifications

It’s important you supply these as soon as possible to ensure processing your first progress payment isn’t delayed.

What do I need to do to arrange a progress payment?

Before we can make a payment to your builder, you’ll need to provide us with:

  • Confirmation that your cash contribution towards the construction costs have been utilised (if applicable)
  • An invoice from your builder, signed by all borrowers stating that you authorise payment.

When the invoice is received, we’ll:

  • Have the property inspected (if required) and then if all is in order;
  • Draw the progress payment from the loan account and pay your builder directly.

We’re required to have your property inspected, so please be aware it could take up to 5 business days to process the payment.

What do I need to do prior to the final payment being made?

Once construction is complete, you’ll need to provide us with:

  • A copy of the Council Occupancy Certificate or equivalent
  • A copy of your home building insurance.

If all items are satisfactory, your final payment will be processed and we’ll let you know what your repayments will be.

Where can I send my documents?

All documents can be:

  • Emailed to progresspayments@qudosbank.com.au
  • Mailed to Locked bag 5020 Mascot NSW 1460 Attention: Lending Operations
  • Sent to one of our home loan specialists at your local branch
6.54
% p.a.
Interest rate
6.36
% p.a.
Comparison rate

T&Cs, fees, charges and lending criteria apply. Rates displayed above are available for new borrowings of $150,000 and over only, owner-occupied, interest only, deposits 20% or more.

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Helpful Tips and Guides

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Important Information

Approved applicants only. Normal lending criteria, terms and conditions and fees and charges apply.

Lenders mortgage insurance is required for home loans over 80% LVR and is subject to approval.

For interest only loans, only monthly repayment option available. During an interest only period, your interest only payments will not reduce your loan balance. This may mean you pay more interest over the life of the loan.

You should read and consider the relevant terms and conditions (available on request) and our Financial Services Guide before deciding whether to obtain any of our financial products or services. Target Market Determination available here.

Standard variable interest rate which your account will revert to after the introductory offer.

Intro variable rate applies to all transactions (including purchases, cash advances and balance transfers) for the first five months from the first date your account is approved and then reverts to the standard variable interest rate.

Annual fee charged upon account opening and annually thereafter.

Interest free days on purchases only apply if your account is paid in full by the due date each month. Excludes cash advances and BPAY transactions. Payment must be received by Qudos Bank by close of business.

Intro rate applies to all transactions (including purchases, cash advances and balance transfers) for the first five months from the first date your account is approved and then reverts to the standard variable interest rate.

Current standard variable interest rate is 12.84% p.a. for Visa Lifestyle, 16.35% p.a. for Visa Lifestyle Plus and 19.49% p.a. for Visa Platinum Credit Cards.

Intro rate applies to all transactions (including purchases, cash advances and balance transfers) for the first five months from the first date your account is approved and then reverts to the standard variable interest rate.

Current standard variable interest rate is 12.84% p.a.

Construction period is up to the date the final progress payment is made or 12 months from the date we first advance money to you, whichever is earliest.

Product deposit requirements vary, split options must meet the highest minimum deposit amount.

Qantas Points accrue in accordance with and subject to the Qantas Points Banking Terms and Conditions and Credit Card Terms and Conditions. You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program and provide your Qantas Frequent Flyer Membership number to us to earn and redeem Qantas Points. The joining fee is waived for Qudos Bank members who are not already a Qantas Frequent Flyer member and who apply at qantas.com/joinffqudos. Membership and the earning and redemption of Qantas Points are subject to the terms and conditions of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program available online at qantas.com/terms. This offer is non transferable and not available in conjunction with any other offer. Qantas Frequent Flyer membership and each application is subject to approval by Qantas. Qudos Bank recommends that you seek independent tax advice in respect of the tax consequences (including fringe benefits tax, and goods and services tax and income tax) arising from the use of this product or from participating in the Qantas Frequent Flyer program or from using any of the rewards or other available program facilities.

Qudos Bank is the issuer, offeror and administrator of the Qudos Bank Qantas Points Banking products and is a credit provider and credit licensee under National Consumer Credit laws.

Access the 24/7 Visa Premium Concierge service in Australia on 1800 639 607. For country contact numbers, terms and conditions and more information, click here.

AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL 245631 (trading as Allianz Global Assistance) under a binder from the insurer, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708 has issued a group policy to Qudos Mutual Limited trading as Qudos Bank ABN 53 087 650 557 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 238 305, (Qudos Bank), which allows eligible Qudos Bank account holders and cardholders to claim under the group policy as a third party beneficiary by reason of the statutory operation of Section 48 of the Insurance Contracts Act 1984 (Cth). The eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the group policy are set out in the Complimentary Travel Insurance Policy Information Booklet: Effective 22 May 2024 which may be amended from time to time. An excess may be deducted from any benefit paid. Qudos Bank does not guarantee this insurance.

A maximum amount of $150,000 applies for vehicles up to 3 years old and $75,000 for vehicles between 3 and 5 years old.

Eligible purchases do not include cash advances, ATO payments, Bpay, interest, balance transfers, fees and charges or traveller's cheques and foreign currencies - these do not earn Qantas Points. For the full list of exclusions, please refer to the Credit Card Terms and Conditions. Qantas Points can be earned on a maximum of $200,000 of eligible purchases per customer for each 12 month period, commencing from the date your account is opened and each account anniversary thereafter (Eligible Transaction Cap), regardless of the number of Qudos Bank Platinum Credit Cards held by you.

Qantas Points accrue in accordance with and subject to the Qantas Points Banking Terms and Conditions and Credit Card Terms and Conditions. You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program and provide your Qantas Frequent Flyer Membership number to us to earn and redeem Qantas Points. The joining fee is waived for Qudos Bank members who are not already a Qantas Frequent Flyer member and who apply at qantas.com/joinffqudos. Membership and the earning and redemption of Qantas Points are subject to the terms and conditions of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program available online at qantas.com/terms. This offer is non transferable and not available in conjunction with any other offer. Qantas Frequent Flyer membership and each application is subject to approval by Qantas. Qudos Bank recommends that you seek independent tax advice in respect of the tax consequences (including fringe benefits tax, and goods and services tax and income tax) arising from the use of this product or from participating in the Qantas Frequent Flyer program or from using any of the rewards or other available program facilities.

Qudos Bank is the issuer, offeror and administrator of the Qudos Bank Qantas Points Banking products and is a credit provider and credit licensee under National Consumer Credit laws.

Selected Qantas products and services are the following items purchased directly from Qantas: Qantas passenger flights (with a QF flight number) Qantas Frequent Flyer and Qantas Club membership joining and annual fees. Excludes Jetstar, Qantas Holidays, Qantas branded non-airfare products and any Qantas products and services not purchased directly from Qantas, purchases from Qantas Freight, Qantas Holidays, Qantas Business Travel, Jetset Travel world channels, Qantas Staff Travel, the Jetstar Group of companies or goods or services supplied by QFF Program partners.

Eligible purchases do not include cash advances, ATO payments, Bpay, interest, balance transfers, fees and charges or traveller's cheques and foreign currencies - these do not earn Qantas Points. For the full list of exclusions, please refer to the Credit Card Terms and Conditions. Qantas Points can be earned on a maximum of $200,000 of eligible purchases per customer for each 12 month period, commencing from the date your account is opened and each account anniversary thereafter (Eligible Transaction Cap), regardless of the number of Qudos Bank Platinum Credit Cards held by you.

Qantas Points accrue in accordance with and subject to the Visa Platinum Rewards Program Terms and Conditions (contained in the Credit Card Terms and Conditions). You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program and provide your Qantas Frequent Flyer Membership number to us to earn and redeem Qantas Points. The joining fee  is waived for Qudos Bank members who are not already a Qantas Frequent Flyer member and who apply at qantas.com/joinffqudos. Membership and the earning and redemption of Qantas Points are subject to the terms and conditions of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program available online at qantas.com/terms. This offer is non transferable and not available in conjunction with any other offer. Qantas Frequent Flyer membership and each application is subject to approval by Qantas. Qudos Bank recommends that you seek independent tax advice in respect of the tax consequences (including fringe benefits tax, and goods and services tax and income tax) arising from the use of this product or from participating in the Qantas Frequent Flyer program or from using any of the rewards or other available program facilities.

Qudos Bank is the issuer, offeror and administrator of the Qantas Points Banking Products and is a credit provider and credit licensee under National Consumer Credit laws.

AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL 245631 (trading as Allianz Global Assistance) under a binder from the insurer, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708 has issued a group policy to Qudos Mutual Limited trading as Qudos Bank ABN 53 087 650 557 AFSL/Australian Credit Licence 238 305, (Qudos Bank), which allows eligible Qudos Bank account holders and cardholders to claim under the group policy as a third party beneficiary by reason of the statutory operation of Section 48 of the Insurance Contracts Act 1984 (Cth). The eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the group policy are set out in the Complimentary Travel Insurance Policy Information Booklet: Effective 22 May 2024 which may be amended from time to time. An excess may be deducted from any benefit paid. Qudos Bank does not guarantee this insurance. Any advice has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs.  You must check whether or not it is appropriate, in light of your own circumstances, to act on this advice.

Access the 24/7 Visa Premium Concierge service in Australia on 1800 639 607. For country contact numbers and more information, click here.

Intro rate applies to all transactions (including purchases, cash advances and balance transfers) for the first five months from the first date your account is approved and then reverts to the standard variable rate

Current standard variable interest rate is 19.49% p.a.

Annual fee charged upon account opening and annually thereafter.

Up to 55 days interest free on purchases only applies if your account is paid in full by the due date each month. Excludes cash advances and BPAY transactions. Payment must be received by Qudos Bank by close of business.

Intro rate applies to all transactions (including purchases, cash advances and balance transfers) for the first five months from the first date your account is approved and then reverts to the standard variable interest rate.

Current standard variable interest rate is 16.35% p.a.


If you would like to request a larger amount, please call us on 1300 747 747.

A maximum amount of $150,000 applies for vehicles up to 3 years old and $75,000 for vehicles between 3 and 5 years old.

Rate applies to term deposits account opened during the term of your Qantas Points Home Loan. Special terms of 3, 6, 9 and 12 months are available and are upon request.

Qantas Points accrue in accordance with and subject to the Qantas Points Banking Terms and Conditions and Credit Card Terms and Conditions. You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program and provide your Qantas Frequent Flyer Membership number to us to earn and redeem Qantas Points. The joining fee is waived for Qudos Bank members who are not already a Qantas Frequent Flyer member and who apply at qantas.com/joinffqudos. Membership and the earning and redemption of Qantas Points are subject to the terms and conditions of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program available online at qantas.com/terms. This offer is non transferable and not available in conjunction with any other offer. Qantas Frequent Flyer membership and each application is subject to approval by Qantas. Qudos Bank recommends that you seek independent tax advice in respect of the tax consequences (including fringe benefits tax, and goods and services tax and income tax) arising from the use of this product or from participating in the Qantas Frequent Flyer program or from using any of the rewards or other available program facilities.

Qudos Bank is the issuer, offeror and administrator of the Qudos Bank Qantas Points Banking products and is a credit provider and credit licensee under National Consumer Credit laws.

Mortgage insurance is required for home loans over 80% and is subject to approval.

An establishment fee of $600 applies to this loan.

Waived annually whilst signed up to the Value Package. Only available for one Visa Platinum Credit Card per Value Package.

Repayment Holidays are not available on interest only loans. Applications are subject to Qudos Bank’s approval.

WARNING: This comparison rate applies only to the example or examples given. Different amounts and terms will result in different comparison rates. Costs such as redraw fees or early repayment fees, and cost savings such as fee waivers, are not included in the comparison rate but may influence the cost of the loan. An unsecured loan of $10,000 with a term of 3 years, or a secured loan of $30,000 with a term of 5 years (as applicable) and a monthly repayment frequency have been used to calculate the comparison rate for all personal loans.

Qantas Points accrue in accordance with and subject to the Qantas Points Banking Terms and Conditions. You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program and provide your Qantas Frequent Flyer Membership number to us to earn and redeem Qantas Points. The joining fee is waived for Qudos Bank members who are not already a Qantas Frequent Flyer member and who apply at qantas.com/joinffqudos. Membership and the earning and redemption of Qantas Points are subject to the terms and conditions of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program available online at qantas.com/terms. This offer is non transferable and not available in conjunction with any other offer. Qantas Frequent Flyer membership and each application is subject to approval by Qantas. Qudos Bank recommends that you seek independent tax advice in respect of the tax consequences (including fringe benefits tax, and goods and services tax and income tax) arising from the use of this product or from participating in the Qantas Frequent Flyer program or from using any of the rewards or other available program facilities.

Qudos Bank is the issuer, offeror and administrator of the Qantas Points Banking products and is a credit provider and credit licensee under National Consumer Credit laws.

Qantas Points accrue on balances up to $1,000,000 in accordance with and subject to the Qantas Points Banking Terms and Conditions. You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program and provide your Qantas Frequent Flyer Membership number to us to earn and redeem Qantas Points. The joining fee is waived for Qudos Bank members who are not already a Qantas Frequent Flyer member and who apply at qantas.com/joinffqudos. Membership and the earning and redemption of Qantas Points are subject to the terms and conditions of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program available online at qantas.com/terms. This offer is non transferable and not available in conjunction with any other offer. Qantas Frequent Flyer membership and each application is subject to approval by Qantas. Qudos Bank recommends that you seek independent tax advice in respect of the tax consequences (including fringe benefits tax, and goods and services tax and income tax) arising from the use of this product or from participating in the Qantas Frequent Flyer program or from using any of the rewards or other available program facilities.

Qudos Bank is the issuer, offeror and administrator of the Qantas Points Banking Products and is a credit provider and credit licensee under National Consumer Credit laws.

Bonus Rate applied if no withdrawals are made during the month.

WARNING: The comparison rates apply only to the example or examples given. Different amounts and terms will result in different comparison rates. Costs such as redraw fees or early repayment fees, and cost savings such as fee waivers, are not included in the comparison rate but may influence the cost of the loan. The comparison rates assume a loan of $150,000 for 25 years. For fixed rate loans, the comparison rate is based on the initial fixed rate period, reverting to the current interest rate applicable to a new principal and interest Low Cost Home Loan with a deposit or equity of 20% or more, for the relevant purpose (ie. owner-occupied or investment). For fixed interest only loans, the interest only period is equal to the fixed period.

Excludes existing loans, switching and variations. These offers can be withdrawn by Qudos Bank at any time. Rates displayed above are available for new borrowings of $150,000 and over only. Minimum deposit or equity of 10% is required. Fixed rate may change prior to funding. On expiration of the fixed rate period, the interest rate will revert to a new principal and interest Low Cost Home Loan with a deposit or equity of 20% of more, for the relevant purpose (ie. owner-occupied or investment).

WARNING: This comparison rate applies only to the example or examples given. Different amounts and terms will result in different comparison rates. Costs such as redraw fees or early repayment fees, and cost savings such as fee waivers, are not included in the comparison rate but may influence the cost of the loan. Our comparison rate assumes a loan of $150,000 for 25 years. The comparison rate is based on a 12 months interest only period, reverting to the interest rate applicable to a new principal and interest Low Cost Home Loan with a deposit or equity of 20% or more for the relevant purpose (ie. owner-occupied or investment).

Excludes existing loans, switching and variations. These offers can be withdrawn by Qudos Bank at any time. Rates displayed above are available for new borrowings of $150,000 and over only. Minimum deposit or equity of 10% is required. After completion of construction, your interest rate will revert to the current interest rate applicable to a new principal and interest Low Cost Home Loan with a deposit or equity of 20% or more, for the relevant purpose (ie. owner-occupied or investment).

Excludes existing loans, switching and variations. These offers can be withdrawn by Qudos Bank at any time. Rates displayed above are available for new borrowings of $150,000 and over only. Minimum deposit or equity of 5% is required. For interest only loans, the rate shown is the rate that applies during the interest only period of your loan. At the end of the interest only period, the interest rate will revert to the variable interest rate applicable to a new principal and interest Standard Variable Home Loan with a deposit or equity of 20% or more, for the relevant purpose (ie. owner-occupied or investment). Interest only available for 1 to 5 years and are subject to approval.

Excludes existing loans, switching and variations. These offers can be withdrawn by Qudos Bank at any time. Rates displayed above are available for new borrowings of $150,000 and over only. Minimum deposit or equity of 10% is required. For interest only loans, the rate shown is the rate that applies during the interest only period of your loan. At the end of the interest only period, the interest rate will revert to the variable interest rate applicable to a new principal and interest home loan for the relevant variable home loan product, and for the relevant purpose (ie. owner-occupied or investment) with a deposit or equity of 20% or more. Interest only available for 1 to 5 years and are subject to approval.

WARNING: This comparison rate applies only to the example or examples given. Different amounts and terms will result in different comparison rates. Costs such as redraw fees or early repayment fees, and cost savings such as fee waivers, are not included in the comparison rate but may influence the cost of the loan. Our comparison rate assumes a loan of $150,000 for 25 years. For interest only loans, the comparison rate is based on a 5-year interest only period, reverting to the interest rate applicable to a principal and interest loan with a deposit or equity of 20% or more for the relevant purpose (ie. owner-occupied or investment).

Excludes existing loans, switching and variations. These offers can be withdrawn by Qudos Bank at any time. Rates displayed above are available for new borrowings of $150,000 and over only. Minimum deposit or equity of 20% is required. For interest only loans, the rate shown is the rate that applies during the interest only period of your loan. At the end of the interest only period, the interest rate will revert to the variable interest rate applicable to a new principal and interest No Frills Home Loan for the relevant purpose (ie. owner-occupied or investment) with a deposit or equity of 20% or more. Interest only terms available for 1 to 5 years and are subject to approval.