Discover
The Construction Lending Podcast

The Construction Lending Podcast
Author: Land Gorilla
Subscribed: 6Played: 9Subscribe
Share
© Land Gorilla
Description
We examine the challenging and complex topics lenders face with construction and renovation loan products. The Construction Lending Podcast will share strategies, insights, information, trends, and best practices around all things related to construction finance.
42 Episodes
Reverse
Navigating today's lending landscape is challenging, but what if you could take your construction program from regional to national? In this episode, we're joined by Cory Bearden, SVP of the construction division at Luminate Bank, who shares his journey and insights on scaling a construction lending program. Cory highlights what it takes to build the right team, manage risk, and leverage technology for success. He also provides a clear look at how his team has created a buffet of options for borrowers, making new construction and affordable housing more accessible for everyone.
In this can't-miss episode of The Construction Lending Podcast, we sit down with Congressman Sam Liccardo—a policymaker who's no stranger to the frontlines of America's housing crisis. Representing California's 16th district, Liccardo gets right to the heart of the matter: the persistent lack of housing affordability, the thorny realities of municipal zoning, and the barriers that stop good projects from breaking ground.
Join this insightful conversation with Robert Turbeville, Chief Lending Officer at First Federal Bank. Robert shares his journey from his first job doing roofs in Florida to overseeing a vast portfolio of lending divisions, including commercial, residential, SBA, and specialty banking. Discover how his unique career path shaped his leadership, the dramatic shifts he's witnessed in the lending industry, and First Federal Bank's innovative partnerships. The conversation also covers the current trends impacting construction lending, from tariffs and labor shortages to the transformative power of technology and AI, offering a glimpse into the future of the industry.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and rewards of building and scaling a construction lending program—from the days of paper files to launching innovative programs at Churchill Mortgage that span multiple states and product types. Dana Solberg discusses everything from builder relationships and risk management to best practices for launching a successful program, all while weaving in memorable analogies and practical tips for thriving in this unique industry.
Join us in this episode as Sarah Bender, Builder Relationship Manager of Mortgage Sales at BECU Home Loans, reveals her unique career path into construction lending. Discover her expert perspectives on what drives success in this sector, including key growth factors, building robust relationships with builders, successful program implementation, and how a foundation of flexibility, transparency, and a people-first approach can truly differentiate you.
This podcast episode features Ed Peace and Joaquin Tremols discussing the USDA Single-Close Construction-to-Permanent Loan Program. Ed and Joaquin detail the program's unique features, such as its one-time close, locked-in rates, and the ability for qualifying borrowers to roll in reserves and closing costs, often with no down payment. The conversation highlights how this program supports affordable housing in rural areas and stimulates local economies by creating jobs. Ed also shares his own experiences with USDA lending. They address the program's underutilization, citing limited awareness, and discuss its benefits for lenders and secondary markets. This episode provides valuable information on how USDA programs can facilitate homeownership and community growth in rural America.
Tim Roy and Ron Haynie from the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) join this episode to share their unique perspectives on the regulatory and legislative challenges shaping today’s banking landscape, from navigating 5,000+ pages of new regulations to grappling with industry changes since Dodd-Frank. They explore how community banks serve as the financial backbone of rural and small-town America and why tailored regulation is essential for their survival and growth. The discussion delves into policy initiatives, the impact of big data and compliance burdens, and the future interplay between housing trends and community banking.
Gain insights from Fannie Mae's Affordable Lending Manager, Zach Ragland, on the MH Advantage program and the potential of manufactured housing to meet affordable housing needs. Discover the efficiencies of off-site construction, learn how Fannie Mae is addressing zoning and titling issues, and explore the opportunity to expand your portfolio by financing manufactured homes. This episode will equip you with the knowledge to identify market opportunities and re-evaluate lending policies to provide more affordable solutions to potential homebuyers.
Homeowner’s insurance rates have seen a near 20% increase from 2021 to 2023, impacting home affordability and construction lending. Don’t miss our in-depth conversation with Deborah Kearns, a veteran freelance editor and writer covering real estate, mortgages, and personal finance. Deborah’s work has appeared in top-tier publications, and she brings eye-opening statistics and expert insights about how these soaring costs and regulatory changes are affecting home affordability, mortgage approvals, and the real estate market as a whole.
Our guest, Jonathan Lawless, Head of Homeownership at Built Rewards and co-host of the "Housing Insiders" podcast, brings over 20 years of housing industry experience to our discussion. From his pioneering work at Fannie Mae to his current role, Jonathan brings his perspective on innovative approaches to product development, the housing shortage, and his visionary ideas for addressing labor shortages and improving construction financing. We discuss the impact of tariffs, new administration policies, and the role of government involvement in the housing market. Plus, we'll touch on the exciting potential of modular home construction and the future of the U.S. housing market.
The Planning Collaborative joins this episode for an insightful discussion on the challenges and potential solutions in financing accessory dwelling units (ADUs). As ADUs now make up 21% of new housing permits in states like California, they are becoming part of the housing shortage solution in every community. Our discussion covers homeowners' difficulties in securing loans for ADU projects, exacerbated by high construction costs and interest rates. The discussion highlights the necessity for innovative financial products and legislative changes to enhance the feasibility of ADU construction for homeowners.
We’re exploring the evolution, significance, and future potential of manufactured homes with Chris Nicely , an expert with over 30 years in factory-built housing. We'll challenge some outdated perceptions, review landmark HUD standards, and uncover how manufactured homes stand up to traditional site-built homes in quality and appreciation. We’ll also address the stigmas and zoning practices that have sidelined manufactured housing and how shifting municipal attitudes are embracing it as a solution to America’s housing crisis.
We welcome Denise Pinkston and Katherine Peoples of Casita Coalition in this episode. Denise and Katherine are champions of equitable lending and housing solutions, bringing decades of expertise in real estate, policy, and lending practices. We'll explore their efforts to ease housing regulations, streamline ADU development, and advocate for equitable lending solutions. Discover how their organizations are working to create more inclusive and accessible neighborhoods.
Keith Stracensky, VP of Construction Lending at Cross Country Mortgage joins us to discuss the state of the construction lending industry and automation’s role in streamlining loan processes and improving efficiency. Tune in to learn how tech is transforming construction lending and discover new opportunities in affordable housing options.
In this episode, we sit down with Ethan Handelman, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Multifamily at HUD. Ethan discusses HUD's role in providing safe and affordable multifamily rental housing, highlighting recent updates to increase housing supply and address the climate crisis. The episode also explores broader issues like exclusionary zoning, community planning, and the ongoing challenges of housing affordability. Learn about the complex interplay between policy, housing affordability, and environmental sustainability at the heart of the housing crisis.
For more podcast episodes, visit: https://landgorilla.com/podcast/
Ford Williams, Vice President & Relationship Manager, Warehouse Lending. at First Horizon Bank, joins us to discuss the opportunity for mortgage lenders to benefit from construction loan programs, especially given the current housing shortage. We cover the profit potential these programs represent for lenders while also underscoring the importance of robust risk management practices. This discussion illuminates the key factors lenders should prioritize when seeking a warehouse bank partner, emphasizing the necessity for experience, due diligence, and flexible program structures.
Critical issues face the current housing market, including the shortage of millions of housing units, high interest rates, and the disparity in home ownership and accessibility. Vice President of Housing Finance Policy at the Urban Institute, Janneke Ratcliffe, joins us to break down these multifaceted challenges. We cover the historical context of government housing policies, the racial homeownership gap, and the lingering effects of past housing practices. The episode sheds light on potential solutions, including the role of federal grants, tax credits, regulations, and new technologies in home building. Tune in to understand how housing continues to be a major issue in the policial universe and what it means for the future of American homeownership.
Guest, David Willoughby, Vice President and Director of Construction Lending at Stockton Mortgage discusses their successful foray into the niche market of construction-to-permanent (C2P) lending for manufactured housing. Willoughby explains the benefits of C2P loans for builders, borrowers, and lenders. The conversation explores the training and support for loan officers to ensure they are knowledgeable and confident in structuring and securing these specialized loans. Also covered is the importance of relationship-building with builders and dealers, particularly in the context of manufactured housing.
With a population of over 39 million, California has experienced a sharp rise in housing prices, making homeownership increasingly unaffordable. Senator Newman, representing California’s 29th District, shares insights on the regulations, market forces, and political obstacles that have fueled the crisis, including Proposition 13 and the California Environmental Quality Act. Senator Newman explores solutions like expanding housing options beyond single-family zoning, incentivizing medium-sized cities to develop housing, and promoting accessory dwelling units. Learn in this in-depth discussion about the housing challenges facing the Golden State and potential paths toward more affordable housing solutions.
Loan originator, John Marshall, shares over four decades of experience in originating custom construction loans. Gain valuable insights on building strong relationships, navigating the draw process, working effectively with title companies, and understanding the nuances of various lender options. John also shares his expertise on industry regulations, communication strategies, and the personal journey that led to his success in the field. This episode offers essential knowledge and strategies for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the construction lending industry.