First Eagle Bank

The Fed raised rates. Here's what it could mean for your construction loan. 🏗️

On September 16, the Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate by a quarter point, bringing it to a range of 3.75% to 4%. According to CNBC, it's the Fed's first rate increase since 2023, and the central bank indicated another hike could come later this year as it works to bring inflation down.

So what does that mean for builders and developers?

Many construction loans have variable rates tied to the prime rate, which typically moves with the Fed. When the Fed raises rates, the interest cost on those loans can go up too. And because you usually pay interest on the funds you've drawn, the impact can grow as your project moves forward.

A few things worth doing now:

Review your loan terms so you know whether your rate is fixed or variable
Revisit your project budget and make sure it accounts for potential rate changes
Ask about interest reserves, especially on longer builds
Plan ahead for spring projects so your financing is lined up early

At First Eagle, we offer both fixed and variable rate options, and our team can help you figure out which structure makes the most sense for your project.

Rate changes don't have to derail your plans. They just make it more important to have a lender who knows your project and talks with you before surprises show up. Reach out to our construction lending team anytime. We're happy to walk through it with you.

To read more from CNBC, visit https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/16/fed-rate-decision-september-2026.html.

FEBank.com - Member FDIC - Equal Housing Lender

#11 out of 100!

We’re proud to share that First Eagle Bank has been named the #11 Best Place to Work in Chicago by Crain's Chicago Business!

This recognition belongs to the people who make First Eagle Bank what it is every day. Our team shows up for one another, for our customers, and for the communities we serve, and we’re incredibly proud of the culture we’ve built together.

To read the full article, visit https://www.chicagobusiness.com/recognitions/best-places-to-work/ccb-best-places-to-work-chicago-2026/?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Newsletter-editorial-promo-20260909.

FEBank.com - Member FDIC - Equal Housing Lender

Congratulations to the Chicago Community Loan Fund (CCLF) on 35 years of creating meaningful impact in our communities!

First Eagle Bank was proud to sponsor and celebrate this incredible milestone last week. We value our strong partnership with CCLF and the important work they continue to do to create opportunities and strengthen communities throughout Chicagoland.

Here’s to 35 years of impact, and many more years of working together!

FEBank.com - Member FDIC - Equal Housing Lender

As a reminder, First Eagle Bank will be closed today in observance of Labor Day. Wishing everyone a safe and relaxing holiday 🇺🇸

Labor Day Closure 🇺🇸

First Eagle Bank will be closed on Monday, September 7th in observance of Labor Day.

We'll reopen with normal business hours on Tuesday, September 8th. Online and mobile banking remain available if you need to check balances, transfer funds, or manage your account over the holiday weekend.

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Labor Day!

FEBank.com - Member FDIC - Equal Housing Lender

Over 30 years, NCIF has deployed more than $560 million in capital across 34 states and territories, supporting mission-oriented financial institutions and strengthening local economies across urban, rural, and small-town America.

This week, First Eagle Bank was proud to sponsor NCIF at 30, a milestone convening celebrating three decades of the National Community Investment Fund and the broader community development finance sector.

Our President, Andy Salk, joined leaders from banking, policy, philanthropy, and impact investing on a panel to reflect on the sector’s evolution, assess its impact today, and help define its future role in expanding access to capital.

FEBank.com - Member FDIC - Equal Housing Lender

Labor Day Closure 🇺🇸

First Eagle Bank will be closed on Monday, September 7th in observance of Labor Day.

We'll reopen with normal business hours on Tuesday, September 8th. Online and mobile banking remain available if you need to check balances, transfer funds, or manage your account over the holiday weekend.

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Labor Day!

FEBank.com - Member FDIC - Equal Housing Lender