Construction finance: a developer's guide to non-bank approval timelines
For a developer, timing is capital. A slow finance approval can cost you a site, a builder or a pre-sale window. Non-bank construction finance is often the fastest route — if you understand how the approval process works.
Why developers use non-bank lenders
Non-bank finance is lending outside the traditional banks. For construction, its two great advantages are speed and flexibility — more responsive assessment and loan structures shaped around the project rather than a rigid bank policy. The trade-off is a higher rate, so the numbers still need to work.
What drives the timeline
- Application quality — complete, accurate documents move fastest.
- Project feasibility — clear costings, presales or lease-up, and a credible exit.
- Developer experience — a track record shortens the conversation.
- Lender criteria — each non-bank weighs these differently, so lender selection matters.
Navigating the approval process
- Prepare — assemble your feasibility, costs and documents, and confirm eligibility.
- Select the right lender — favourable terms and a reliable track record over headline rate alone.
- Negotiate terms — rate, leverage, interest treatment and drawdown schedule.
Keep it moving by being transparent, communicating proactively, and using experienced advisers. Avoid the usual delays: incomplete applications and last-minute changes.
How Siare helps
Siare arranges senior debt, mezzanine finance and preferred equity, and prepares submissions built for how credit assessors actually read them — which is what shortens a timeline more reliably than anything else.
Talk to Siare early — the right structure and a well-prepared submission can make or break your program.
This is general information about business and investment-purpose finance only. It is not financial, legal or tax advice and does not take account of your objectives or circumstances. All finance is subject to lender assessment, valuation and approval, and no timeframe or outcome is guaranteed.