You need to find contractors with a long history and strong reputation.

Verifying last 2 years of rental history very important!

If it's within an HOA, call the HOA's property management company and ask them if they know any of the history of the lot and if they see any constraints to building it and what steps it would take with them to build on it in conformance with their CC&R's.

Verifying last 2 years of rental history very important!

What I am specifically looking for is perhaps a hard money lender that will work with my equity and not so much with my financials or credit history.

Real estate is the most proven asset class in the history of the world.

Although this is technically one single property, for tax reporting purposes, we will treat them as though they are two totally separate assets because they have experienced different use in their history.

I've tried BMO (BMO Harris), and I will most likely try RBC, but usually it's a US credit card or mortgage, but correct me if I'm wrong, but it doesn't build your US Credit history.

Cool bit of history too!

Your contractor may not have a good history with BofA. he may not be disclosing that part to you, which would likely impact the long holds.BofA, CHASE, Wells, etc... are large institutions that have giant businesses portfolio and are very aware of the importance of timely fund clearances for small businesses.