Cambridge's Ground Up Construction Lender for High-Density Infill Development
For experienced real estate investors and builders in Cambridge, time is your most valuable asset. The city is currently leading a housing revolution with the 2025 Citywide Multifamily Zoning adoption, which allows for four-story and in some cases six story residential buildings as of right across all neighborhoods. You need a financial partner who can move faster to capitalize on this unprecedented access to urban land. Archwest Capital provides agile, in house ground up construction loans designed specifically for the unique demands of the Cambridge development landscape.
From new high density apartment projects in the North Cambridge and Alewife areas to boutique multifamily infill in residential pockets, our tailored financing and streamlined process empower you to build with confidence and speed.
LOAN HIGHLIGHTS
Ground Up Construction Loan
Term
12 to 30 Months
Loan Amount
$250K to $5M+
LTC
Up to 90%
LTV
Up to 75%
Property Types
Non-Owner Occupied
SFR, Condo, Townhome, 2–4 Plex
Multifamily Up to 9 Units
Infill, ADU, Community Builds
Power Your Next Build with Speed and Certainty
Ground up construction demands speed, flexibility, and reliable capital. Our Ground Up Construction Loan is built for experienced real estate investors ready to turn raw land or teardown sites into profitable residential developments. With competitive terms, strong leverage, and financing tailored to a wide range of property types, we deliver the certainty and resources you need to bring your vision to life.
From single-family homes and small multifamily projects to infill and portfolio builds, our Ground Up Construction Loan provides the capital structure and confidence to take your project from blueprint to completion, on time and on budget.
WHY ARCHWEST
The Archwest Difference: A Lender Built for Builders
At Archwest Capital, we understand that your project’s success hinges on rapid, reliable financing. We are not a traditional bank; our lending approach is built on a deep understanding of investment real estate and the need for a lender who understands your business. Our loan programs are crafted for efficiency and flexibility, ensuring you have the capital you need precisely when you need it.
Pricing – We offer the most competitive terms in the industry.
Speed – We can close in as fast as 7 days, with 24 hour draws.
Expertise – Our construction lending team understands your needs.
Service – Smooth closings, easy draws, and future takeout solutions.
GROUND UP EXPERTISE
In-House Expertise & Dedicated Support Team
We make construction lending simple—from first call to final draw. Every loan decision at Archwest Capital is made by our in-house team of dedicated construction lending experts. We operate without a middleman, giving you direct access to underwriters and loan advisors who are intimately familiar with Cambridge’s diverse housing stock. Our underwriting process is focused on the strength of the deal, the builder’s proven experience, and the completed value of the project not on personal income documentation. This streamlined approach allows us to deliver efficient turnarounds and record closing times, ensuring you can seize opportunities as soon as they arise.
Questions about financing your project in Cambridge?
Our experts are here to help! Connect with our Cambridge relationship manager’s today on terms, eligibility, timelines, and next steps.
CAMBRIDGE MARKET
Your Cambridge Investment Partner: Local Market Insights
Beyond providing capital, Archwest Capital is a partner with unparalleled local market knowledge. Our team is fluent in the new Residence C-1 zoning standards and the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO), which allow for increased height and density in exchange for inclusionary units.
Specializing in Cambridge's High-Demand Markets
We specialize in financing construction projects in the neighborhoods where Cambridge’s experienced developers are finding the greatest success.
Alewife & North Cambridge: These areas are the focus of large scale residential expansion. We provide financing for vertical infill and high density apartment construction, leveraging the city’s vision for a transit oriented, sustainable future near the Red Line.
The Port & Area 4: This centrally located hub is highly competitive for vertical infill and boutique multifamily construction. Our agile process ensures you secure financing quickly to acquire prime parcels and maximize density for premium stabilization near Kendall Square.
Strawberry Hill & Neighborhood Nine: Targeting neighborhoods previously limited to low density housing that now allow for four to six story multifamily projects. We have the expertise to fund contemporary designs that align with the city’s aggressive housing supply goals while maximizing your return on investment.
Benefits in the Cambridge Market
| Benefits | Why It Matters Here |
|---|---|
| Streamlined Approval | Get started fast and keep your build on track. |
| Flexible Leverage | Tailored LTC/LTV to maximize returns. |
| Market-Aligned Terms | Fixed and adjustable rates to match conditions. |
| Builder-Focused Underwriting | Experience and viability matter more than personal income. |
| Local Development Fit | Perfect for infill lots, SFRs, and small multifamily projects. |
What Our Partners Say
Archwest is the best lender to the best builders. We help clients move fast, build smart, and maximize returns.
How It Works
Project Review & Builder Experience
We assess your plans and track record to ensure a strong market fit.
Budget & Valuation
Detailed review of budget, scope, and exit strategy with appraisals based on completed value.
Loan Structure & Underwriting
Interest-only payments during construction; underwriting focused on project strength.
Draw Process & Timeline
Funds released in milestone stages (foundation, framing, inspections) for smooth progress.
Completion & Exit
Refinance, sell, or hold—we help align your exit with your investment goals.
FAQ
Frequently Asked
Questions
Answers to common questions about working with Archwest Capital
What is ground up construction loan?
A ground up construction loan gives you the capital to build a new residential property from the ground up, whether you’re starting on an empty lot or a teardown site. We release funds in scheduled draws as each phase of your build is finished, keeping capital flowing at the pace your project needs.
Do I need real estate investing experience to qualify?
Ground up construction loans generally require three completed projects within the past 36 months. Licensed general contractors with a 720+ FICO may qualify with two completed projects.
What credit score do I need for a ground up construction loan?
Archwest generally requires a minimum average FICO score of 680 for loan eligibility, alongside evaluating the strength of your project plan and track record as an investor.
How long does a ground up construction loan last?
Ground up construction loan terms range from 12 to 24 months, with up to two 3-month extensions if your project needs more time. Extensions are subject to approval and applicable terms.
What types of ground up projects can be financed?
Ground up construction loans typically cover new single-family homes, condos, townhomes, 2-4 plex properties, multifamily up to 9 units, infill development, ADUs, and community builds, giving investors financing across a range of project types and scales.
How do I start my loan application process?
You can request a quote through our website Get an Estimate and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
Nationwide Lender with Local Expertise
County: Middlesex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, Plymouth
City: Cambridge, Boston, Somerville, Brookline, Newton, Medford, Arlington, Belmont, Waltham, Watertown, Quincy, Malden, Everett, Chelsea
Recently Funded
Let's Build Together
From the transit hubs of Alewife to the newly up-zoned residential streets of Neighborhood Nine, the Cambridge Metro offers abundant infill opportunities and significant project volume for experienced builders. Archwest gives you the capital and speed to make it happen.