VA Construction Loan Success Story: Custom Home Build on Rural Land in California
VA Construction Loan for a Custom Home on Acreage
This VA construction loan project highlights how a Veteran successfully purchased land and built a custom home using their VA loan benefit—all in one streamlined process.
This build took place on a rural homesite in California and shows what’s possible when the right builder, plans, and financing structure come together.
Project Snapshot
- Loan Type: VA One-Time Close Construction Loan
- Location: California (Rural Property)
- Property Type: Custom Single-Family Home
- Lot Size: Approx. 2.36 Acres
- Land Purchase Price: $75,000
- Construction Budget: $546,628
- Living Area: 2,446 sq. ft.
- Garage: 1,383 sq. ft.
- Covered Porch: 233 sq. ft.
- Covered Patio: 400 sq. ft.
- Total Under Roof: 4,462 sq. ft.
- Builder: Shawn Sprague Construction
- Plans By: Wagnon and Associates
About This VA Construction Loan Project
This project started with the purchase of vacant land intended for a custom home build. The Veteran used a VA construction loan to finance both the land and the construction in a single loan structure.
This is one of the most powerful (and underused) VA benefits—allowing eligible Veterans to build instead of buy, without needing separate loans.
Because this was a rural property, the project included:
- Well installation
- Septic system planning
- Grading and site work
- Utility coordination
These are all common for VA construction loans on acreage.
Home Design & Layout
The home was designed as a single-story custom residence, ideal for long-term living and accessibility.
Key Features:
- Open-concept living area
- Split bedroom layout
- Large kitchen with pantry
- Dedicated laundry room
- Oversized garage
- Covered front porch
- Covered rear patio
Exterior Design
The home features a clean, modern exterior design with:
- Extended rooflines
- Covered outdoor living spaces
- Functional layout for rural living
- Solar-ready roofing area
Build Specifications
- 2×6 exterior wall framing
- Premanufactured roof trusses
- Concrete slab foundation
- Hardie board siding
- Fire sprinkler system (required)
These details are important because VA construction loans require full plan approval and compliance.
Construction Budget Breakdown
The total construction contract was $546,628, covering:
- Site prep + grading
- Water well + fire water tank
- Foundation + flatwork
- Framing + structural materials
- Electrical, plumbing, HVAC
- Roofing + solar
- Windows + doors
- Interior finishes
- Appliances
- Permits + contingency
This level of detail is required for VA construction loan approval.
Land + Construction Strategy
The land was purchased for $75,000 and combined with construction into one VA loan.
Instead of:
- Buying land first
- Then figuring out construction financing later
This Veteran used a one-time close VA construction loan, meaning:
✔ One loan
✔ One closing
✔ One approval process
This simplifies everything and reduces risk.
Builder Spotlight
This project was completed with Shawn Sprague Construction.
Choosing the right builder is critical for VA construction loans. Builders must meet VA guidelines, stay organized, and work within draw schedules.
Why This Project Matters for Veterans
Most Veterans don’t realize:
👉 You can build a home with your VA loan
👉 You don’t have to buy an existing house
This project shows exactly how a Veteran:
- Bought land
- Built a custom home
- Used their VA benefit the right way
Common VA Construction Loan Questions
Can I use a VA loan to buy land and build?
Yes—when structured properly, both can be included.
Are rural properties allowed?
Yes, but they require planning for septic, wells, and utilities.
What needs to be included in the budget?
Everything—from site work to final finishes.
Do I need a specific builder?
Yes. Builders must be approved and meet VA requirements.
Start Your VA Construction Loan
If you’re thinking about building a home using your VA loan benefit, you need the right structure from day one.
As a VA loan expert Shirley Mueller, I help Veterans nationwide navigate:
- Land + construction strategy
- Builder approvals
- Budget and plans
- VA construction loan qualification
