What I’ve Learned From Helping Hundreds of Families Build Custom Homes
By Cat Totty | The Totty Team at Cardinal Financial
I’m proud to say I’ve helped guide hundreds of families through construction financing throughout my mortgage career — from right here in Central Texas to projects across the country, from the East Coast to the West Coast.
And no matter where the build is happening, one thing never changes:
there’s something incredibly special about watching a family bring their dream home to life.
From the early planning stages to the final walk-through, construction lending isn’t just about numbers. It’s about vision, patience, trust, and watching ideas turn into something real. I still get excited seeing families choose layouts, talk through design ideas, and imagine what life will look like in a home that hasn’t even been built yet.
The First Question I Always Ask
When someone reaches out about building a home, I always start with the same question:
“Have you ever built a custom home before?”
About 95% of the time, the answer is no.
And that’s completely okay.
Building a custom home isn’t something most people do more than once — if ever. That’s why I never assume where someone is in the process. Some clients already own land. Others are just starting to explore neighborhoods. Some have house plans in hand, while others are still in the dreaming stage.
My job is to meet you exactly where you are.
Construction Loans Start With Education, Not Pressure
One of the biggest misconceptions about construction loans is that you’re supposed to already know how everything works.
You’re not.
A big part of my role is walking clients through:
What the construction loan process actually looks like
When and how funds are released
What to expect at closing
What happens after closing, once construction begins
How timelines, inspections, and draw schedules work
There’s no rush — and no judgment. The goal is clarity, not pressure.
What I Help Clients Think Through Early On
Every construction project is unique, but there are a few things I help clients prepare for early in the process:
Do you already own land, or will that be part of your loan?
Are you working with a builder yet, or still exploring options?
What type of home are you building — custom, semi-custom, barndominium, or something else?
What does your overall financial picture look like today and long-term?
These conversations help shape expectations and create a smoother experience from the very beginning.
What to Expect During the Build
Construction loans work differently than traditional mortgages. Instead of receiving all funds at once, money is released in stages as construction progresses.
This typically includes:
Scheduled draw inspections
Coordination between the lender, builder, and inspectors
Flexibility for small changes along the way
It’s completely normal to feel excited, nervous, and impatient at different points during the build. Having the right support makes a meaningful difference.
Why I Love Construction Lending
There’s something incredibly rewarding about helping families build from the ground up.
I love being part of the planning conversations, helping solve challenges before they become problems, and watching families step into homes that once lived only on paper.
Construction lending isn’t just a transaction — it’s a journey. And it deserves guidance from someone who understands both the process and the emotions that come with it.
How The Totty Team Helps You Build With Confidence
At The Totty Team at Cardinal Financial, we do more than just provide financing — we help you create a clear, confident plan from start to finish.
We support you by:
Helping you understand your construction loan options clearly and early
Preparing you for each phase of the build, not just the closing
Coordinating with builders, inspectors, and other professionals
Helping you navigate timelines, draws, and documentation
Being available when questions come up — because they always do
Whether you’re in the early idea phase or already working with a builder, our goal is to make the process feel organized, informed, and manageable.
We don’t rush you. We don’t assume. And we don’t treat your project like a transaction.
We treat it like what it is — your future home.
Let’s Build Something Great Together
If you’re thinking about building — whether that’s months or even a year away — I’d love to help you explore what’s possible.
From early planning to final walk-through, I’m here to help you move forward with confidence.
Cat Totty
The Totty Team | Cardinal Financial
Helping families turn ideas into homes — one build at a time.
