29/09/2025
🏗️ What are Progress Payments and How Do They Work?
Thinking of building your dream home instead of buying one? ✨ Then it’s important to understand progress payments, a key difference between building loans and home loans.
👉 With a home loan, the full loan amount is paid in one lump sum.
👉 With a building loan, the bank pays the loan out in stages (called progress payments) as construction moves forward.
🔹 When are progress payments made?
Typically 4-6 stages are agreed upfront (e.g., foundations, walls, roof, finishes).
At each stage, the builder completes the work.
You (the client) submit a request form, and the bank sends an assessor to confirm progress before releasing funds.
🔹 Who authorises the payments?
You do ✅ The bank releases the money, but only after your approval and inspection confirmation.
🔹 Documents you’ll need for a building loan:
Building plans & site plan (drawn up by an architect).
A signed contract with your builder.
Proof your builder is registered with the NHBRC (National Home Builders Registration Council).
A lien waiver from the builder (waiving rights to the property/materials).
🔹 Do you qualify?
You’ll need:
✔️ To be 18+ with a good credit record (score above 670).
✔️ A registered builder.
✔️ A deposit (usually 10%), unless you apply for a 100% bond.
💡 Top Tips Before You Build:
Get pre-qualified so you know your budget & credit readiness.
Work with an architect and consult an attorney before signing contracts.
Ensure the builder has Contractors All Risk Insurance.
Once complete, arrange proper home insurance.
🏡 Building your home may take time, effort, and planning — but in the end, you’ll have a home truly designed in your own image.
📲 Ready to explore your options? Contact ooba George on 044 874 6464 / 044 874 3516 and we’ll guide you every step of the way.