FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What does hard money mean in lending? Hard money refers to a type of loan secured by real estate assets. Unlike traditional loans that rely on a borrower’s creditworthiness, hard money loans are based on the value of the property being used as collateral. This allows for quicker approvals and funding, making them ideal for real estate investments, especially fix-and-flip projects.

Why would someone use a hard money lender? Investors use hard money lenders for several reasons:

• Speed: Hard money loans offer faster approval and funding compared to traditional loans, allowing investors to seize opportunities quickly.
• Flexibility: These loans are based on the property's value rather than the borrower's credit score, making them accessible to a wider range of investors.
• Short-Term Solutions: Ideal for short-term investments like fix-and-flip projects, where quick turnaround and funding are crucial.

What is an example of hard money? An example of hard money is a loan provided to a real estate investor to purchase and renovate a property for a quick resale. For instance, an investor finds a distressed property, applies for a hard money loan based on the property's potential after-repair value (ARV), and receives funding quickly to purchase and renovate the property, aiming to sell it at a profit within a short period.

How do I qualify for a hard money loan? Qualification for a hard money loan primarily depends on the value of the property being used as collateral. While credit scores and financial history are considered, they are less critical compared to traditional loans. The focus is on the property's potential value after renovations.

What are the typical terms of a hard money loan? Hard money loans are usually short-term, ranging from 6 months to a few years, and are interest-only payments. 

How quickly can I get funding with a hard money loan? One of the key advantages of hard money loans is the speed of funding. Once the property’s value is assessed and approved, funds can be disbursed in as little as a few days, making it an ideal option for time-sensitive real estate investments.

What are the risks associated with hard money loans? The primary risks include higher interest rates and fees compared to traditional loans, as well as the short-term nature of the loan, which requires a quick turnaround. Borrowers need to ensure that their investment projects are sound and that they have a clear exit strategy to repay the loan within the agreed timeframe.