Can you build a house on land that is not yours?

Say a couple owns land that has been in the family for several generations. The land owners don't mind having relatives live on the land, but do not wish to sell or give away the land. A good reason might be that they don't want the relatives to ever be able to sell or give away the land to other people. Would a land lease be a good answer? Will the bank lend money to the home builders to build on leased land? Are there any tax benefits for either party?

You can do a land lease. Although they're not common in the US, they are very common elsewhere in the world (Hong Kong was built on one). Generally they're for 99 years, and a bank SHOULD have no objection to a 30 year loan. However, this would not be a conforming loan, so not every lender will want to bother.

land lease.

no

you should better ask and set up a contract.its safer for you and your family before he is coming to burn you house and you and your relatives has to sleep under the brigde.

I don't think there should be a problem with you building a house on a relative's land. However, you may want to get this in writing just in case in the future, you're in a situation where you need proof of this. For example - if the relatives pass away.

yes you can, but there could be consequences

illegaly can, legally cannot.

no