Explore every episode of the podcast The Construction Lending Podcast

As Austin has transformed from a mid-size city to a booming urban hub, it’s faced the growing pains of rapid migration, skyrocketing housing costs, and the challenge of balancing affordability with development. Our guest, Dr. Eric Johnson, Austin’s Assistant City Manager, shares perspectives on how the city is evolving its approach to growth, embracing greater housing density and community benefits, and—most notably—deploying cutting-edge AI tools to make Austin “open for business” and dramatically speed up permitting and development processes. Whether you’re interested in urban housing policy, regulation, or the latest in construction tech, this episode is a can’t-miss look at how Austin is navigating its next big leap forward.

This conversation with David Kooris, Executive Director of the Connecticut Municipal Development Authority (CMDA) explores the innovative "carrot-based" model that is currently supporting 43 member communities. Learn how the CMDA acts as an honest broker between developers and municipalities, ensuring that projects align with both local visions and state economic goals.

Marcia Fisher, Director of Mortgage Operations at UVA Community Credit Union, details her transition from sales to operations and how she leveraged that experience to build a high-performing construction lending team. She digs into the operational realities of the product, explaining why construction lending is "90% process and 10% gut," and offers critical advice on builder vetting, reviewing contracts, and utilizing contingency reserves to mitigate risk. Gain actionable insights on launching or scaling a construction loan program, emphasizing the necessity of strong processes and intimate borrower-builder management throughout the 12-month lifecycle.

In this episode, we welcome Sheronda L. Carr, CEO of the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC). As the industry prepares for the 60th anniversary of Women in Construction (WIC) Week, Sheronda explores the critical role women play in stabilizing the "built environment". The conversation cuts through the fluff to address the hard realities of retention, workplace safety, gender advocacy, and building community for women across all roles in the construction industry.

Dr. Robert Dietz, Chief Economist for the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), analyzes the housing market's 2025 performance and the outlook for 2026. The discussion examines the current structural housing deficit and the industry's path toward normalization by the 2030s. Dr. Dietz tackles questions about housing deficits, the boom in townhouses, custom home market trends, regulatory roadblocks, and why remodeling is making up an ever-larger share of construction activity.

John McMullen, from the Mortgage Bankers Association, unpacks the recent policy shifts achieved through targeted industry advocacy. John details the MBA's direct influence on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, leading to immediate changes that will reshape the construction lending landscape. We cover the recent policy change of extending construction loan documentation to 18 months, the effort to secure upfront securitization for single-close construction-to-perm loans , and the exciting proposal to lower the completion threshold for HomeStyle renovation loans to 50% to spur more renovation activity. 

Mastering Builder Trust, Structuring Loans, and the Art of Saying 'No'

Industry veteran Mitzi Hutchens joins the podcast to demystify construction lending. She shares the strategies for success, including the critical differences between fixed price and cost-plus contracts and the key to unbreakable builder trust. Mitzi breaks down essential risk management tactics — from requiring contingency funds to paying vendors directly. She closes with a bold pitch to the agencies.

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.

Peter Benjamin, President of ACUMA, joins this episode's discussion on credit unions and their role in the mortgage industry, tackling hot topics like liquidity concerns, employee morale, and the ever-evolving landscape of purchase business. Peter shares insights into the challenges and opportunities facing credit unions, emphasizing the importance of modernization and staying ahead of the curve when it comes to technology. Also discussed are the opportunities in construction and renovation lending, exploring how these products can help credit unions remain competitive and better serve their members.

We’re shedding light on the nuances of title insurance and attorney opinion letters, including understanding when to choose each option to balance coverage and drive down closing costs for borrowers.

Join us as mortgage insurance expert Kevin Hearden from MGIC breaks down the intricacies of MI in construction loans. We delve into activating and canceling MI, special considerations for the construction phase, and strategies for managing MI throughout the loan lifecycle. This is an essential guide to understanding the world of mortgage insurance for construction loans.

With affordable housing out of reach for many Americans, off-site construction is helping many finally attain home ownership. Ramsey Cohen, Director of Industry and Community Affairs from Clayton Homes, joins this episode to discuss how off-site construction tackles the housing attainability crisis by offering faster completion times and financial advantages. We explore how these innovative homes blend seamlessly into existing neighborhoods, offering energy efficiency, faster build times, and significant cost savings. Ramsey highlights the special financing options from Fannie and Freddie, designed specifically for these homes.

This episode will guide construction lenders through the critical world of builder’s risk insurance with expert Daniel Gilman from Morris and Garritano Insurance. Our comprehensive discussion covers everything from the essential coverage builder’s risk insurance offers for materials and property during construction to the importance of having both property owners and general contractors named on the policy. Daniel brings his extensive experience in underwriting builder's risk policies for projects ranging up to $55 million, sharing insights on coverage essentials, cost implications, and policy management throughout the construction process.

In this conversation, we're joined by Andy Woodman, Director of Mortgage Lending at Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union (TVFCU). TVFCU has recently made waves in the construction lending arena with the roll-out of its new program. Andy brings us inside the journey of implementing this service, targeting the inventory shortage in home sales and responding to the demand from their members in their extensive 17-county coverage area. As we unpack the inception and execution of this innovative program, Andy will share with us the operational essentials such as infrastructure support, specialist staff recruiting, builder vetting, and the importance of documentation. We discuss not just the technicalities of the construction lending program at TVFCU, but also the passion that's necessary to drive such a venture forward.

In this installment, we are joined by Matt Jones, Associate Vice President of Government Housing Finance with the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). We'll navigate the industry's pressing priorities and intricate policy landscapes. Our conversation highlights the MBA's role in shaping housing policy and its commitment to understanding and influencing governmental procedures on behalf of its members. Matt provides a comprehensive overview of what's at stake for the industry and homeowners. We also address the current state of political affairs on Capitol Hill and discuss the potential bipartisan nature of housing policy amid political gridlock and looming elections. Get ready for an episode filled with industry perspectives, policy predictions, and a glimpse into the potential future of the housing market.

Join us for an insightful discussion with Jennifer ‘The Reno Gal’ Goldsby, a seasoned professional in the mortgage industry and the VP of Renovation Lending at Diamond Residential Mortgage Company. In this episode, we will explore the intricacies of renovation lending, focusing on effective communication, expertise, and exceptional customer service. Jennifer shares valuable insights, including the need for change in property marketing to highlight renovation financing options, the benefits of renovation programs, especially for first-time home buyers, and sharing multiple resources for finding reliable contractors. Whether you’re a lender, real estate agent, or homebuyer, this episode offers actionable advice to navigate the housing market effectively.

Ready to sharpen your knowledge of the current and future state of real estate entrepreneurship? In this informative episode, we’re sitting down with Josh Ernst from Backflip, a proptech and fintech company. We discuss the role played by real estate entrepreneurs in rejuvenating communities, and how Backflip's commitment to technology is empowering these passionate property professionals. We cover how a customer-first approach fueled growth through the power of referrals and organic buzz. Josh unfolds how Backflip supports modernizing America's aging housing market—even amidst the sharp economic twists, such as the recent spike in interest rates. Discover how their clientele has shown admirable resilience, maintaining their operational pace despite the rising cost of capital.

Get ready for an insightful episode that will take you through the world of title research. Join us as we chat with Dave Mitchell from AFX Research – a leading title research company. Together, we’ll discuss the layers of property liens and the impact of historical recording processes. Dave’s insights will help us navigate the operational challenges that title research presents, and we’ll discover the fascinating intricacies of the research process. We’ll also learn about the herculean effort required to modernize historical and county-specific land records. With title research being key in construction lending, this episode is a perfect blend of technical expertise and personal anecdotes to uncover how lenders can protect their interests despite legal changes.

In this episode, we welcome Ron Haynie from the ICBA to discuss the role of community banks in construction lending and the broader economy.  We explore the importance of consistency, the impacts of political influences, and the regulatory environment on community banks.  We also discuss the potential improvements to the compliance processes via the trial disclosures sandbox initiated by the ICBA. Haynie emphasizes the value of local relationship banking, the advocacy and educational efforts of the ICBA, and their push for innovation to assist community banks. 

In this episode, we're joined by HUD consultant, Bob Canty, to unpack 203(k) loans. With a growing inventory of aging homes, Bob will explain why the 203(k) loan program isn't just necessary, but vital for home repairs and alterations. He'll discuss the importance of full home inspections and the pivotal role of choosing a strong contractor. From a HUD Consultant’s view, we'll talk about the thorough checks needed to protect everyone involved in the loan process. Bob will share how he breaks down renovation costs for FHA loans and the importance of clear communication in this intricate process. Lastly, we'll discuss the HUD consultant's role in managing conflicts and ensuring smooth sailing for your renovation projects. Prepare for an insightful journey into the intricate world of housing and renovations.

Get ready for an enlightening discussion as we're joined by William Brown, a seasoned expert in the renovation lending industry, who's here to shed light on pivotal changes and challenges within the industry. In this episode, we dissect recent proposed adjustments to the FHA 203(k) program and the potential effects from contractor selection and project timelines to administrative and financial hurdles. William will share his insights on the market's direction and provide valuable advice on the importance of contractor vetting, proactive timeline management, and strategic handling of construction costs. This episode is packed with expertise and critical analysis of the complex details of renovation lending

Thrive Mortgage's Focus on Construction Loans

We are joined by Mitzi Hutchens, Director of Special Programs at Thrive Mortgage. We'll be exploring their operational domains and their diverse construction loan programs which include FHA, VA, and conventional renovation programs. We'll speak about their continual efforts to enhance their renovation lending and the valuable construction-based opportunities they provide for loan officers, realtors, and builders. We have a candid conversation and share some challenging experiences when managing construction loans and how Thrive successfully navigates these hurdles. 

This episode is a must-listen for anybody interested in construction loans, strategies for overcoming construction lending challenges, and the integral role communication plays in this landscape. Mitzi shares best practices for managing construction loans, the changes they've adapted to benefit borrowers, and their groundbreaking one-time close loan. Prepare for an exciting journey in construction lending, and discover how Thrive Mortgage has achieved remarkable success over the past decade.

Welcome to "The Top 5", our regular segment where we delve into recent housing headlines and explore the potential impact on construction lending. In this discussion, we will explore the factors that are keeping homeowners rooted in their current properties, exacerbating the affordability issue in the housing market. Additionally, we'll delve into how local and state agencies are adopting zoning laws as a means to tackle the housing crisis, as well as the future of renovation in addressing the aging housing stock.

Welcome back to another episode of The Construction Lending Podcast. Are you ready to understand the nuts and bolts of construction inspections? In today's episode, we chat with Blake Walter from Walter Residential in Atlanta, Georgia. Blake gives us a clear vision of the challenges in new construction and renovation inspections, and discusses the use of technology for efficiency in the field. From fuel points to inspecting with drones, we navigate it all.

In this episode of The Construction Lending Podcast, we explore Waterstone Mortgage's one-time close construction loan program with its Vice President of Construction, Nicole Wolfgram. We cover the program's significant impact on the market, its importance to loan officers and the community, and the complexities involved in construction lending.

With the construction sector at the helm of housing demands and talent acquisition, we unpack the critical role of this innovative program. We also touch on the broader implications of construction lending in a potentially stabilizing economy and the untapped potential it holds amidst the ebb and flow of interest rates.

In today’s episode, we interview Heather Penziol and Kate Bohlin from Horizon Bank. They’ll be sharing their insights, and experiences in the world of construction lending. They also emphasize the importance of aligning expectations to avoid any potential issues. Also covered is the importance of training, managing customer expectations, and establishing clear policies and procedures. Our guests highlight the interconnected nature of various bank services and explore the financial implications beyond the construction lending department.

In today's episode, we dive into the intricacies of state statutory requirements and how they impact construction lenders. Our guest is Sean Faries, the CEO and founder of Land Gorilla. We discuss the importance of understanding state requirements, balancing risk, and minimizing borrower friction in the lending process. Sean also discusses a valuable resource from Land Gorilla, the State Compliance Library, designed to provide lenders with essential information on lien waivers, construction laws, and more. Whether you're a construction lender or simply interested in the topic, this episode is full of valuable insights and expert advice.

Ed Peace from the USDA joins us to discuss their unique new construction loan programs for rural markets. With the only construction to permanent program that is Ginnie Mae securitizable at closing, the USDA Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan has much to offer borrowers. Lenders benefit from the ability to book the ROI of the loan quicker. In our discussion, we cover the shifts of home building in rural markets, specifics and important parameters of the USDA’s construction loan program, and we share a few personal stories of constructing homes in rural areas.

Today’s topic is about alternative solutions to affordable housing including Factory-Built Housing. It is no surprise that we have a housing inventory and affordability crisis. But there are some great alternative, affordable solutions to a stick-built home such as factory-built. What are the benefits and challenges of Factory-Built Housing? Listen as we uncover this alternative solution.

In this episode, join our conversation with 1st Security Bank as they discuss their journey to become a leading custom residential construction lender in their market. Garth Kent, Home Lending Collateral Underwriting Manager, VP for 1st Security Bank walks us through the growth of their program, the strategic approach to scaling and enhancing customer experience, overcoming challenges, and the immense satisfaction of helping clients achieve the dream of owning a home.