Permit approval: three to twelve months
Plans and tenders: two to six months
Ground breaking: depends on the season
The real timeline
- Permit approval: three to twelve months
- Plans and tenders: two to six months
- Ground breaking: depends on the season
- Construction loan: requested before work starts
If the term ends before work starts
A land loan can be renewed. Budget for the renewal fees.
What stretches the timeline
- A zoning change to request
- A soil study revealing a constraint
- A neighbour’s challenge to the project
- A construction season narrowly missed
The cost of waiting
Each month adds interest and taxes. Over two years, the total becomes significant.
Negotiating the term upfront
Ask for a term covering your real schedule, not the shortest one offered.
Preparing the permit in parallel
Submit the permit application as soon as you buy the land.
Plans can progress while the municipality reviews the application.
Working in parallel saves several months on the schedule.
Planning the renewal
A land loan often matures before construction begins.
Ask for the renewal terms from the outset.
A renewal negotiated ahead costs less than an improvised one.
