Blog
Hard Money FAQs
18th June, 2014
Here are some of the frequently asked questions covering hard money loans or fast loan funding: What is a hard money loan? A hard money loan is an alternative loan facility that provides loans for not-so-conventional loans. It is also Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Basics About Finding and Purchasing Distressed Properties
11th June, 2014
The real estate industry can prove to be a gold mine. It is fraught with opportunities for the discerning and quick to act. There are basically four types of distressed properties. Each has its pros and cons that every aspiring Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Developing a Business Through Rental Properties
4th June, 2014
With the financial crunch, individuals and families are turning to home or apartment rentals, rather than investing a huge portion of their monthly expenses to a home mortgage. This is coupled by the emergence of plenty of investment properties sold Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
A Guide To Becoming a Successful Real Estate Investor
24th November, 2013
People see it everywhere – get rich quick schemes that promise money and good fortune. In reality, real estate is a complicated investment field that requires abundant financial resources. Real estate is a great way to expand one’s investment portfolio. Read More
Categories: Loan Funding Tips
Insider View: What Real Estate Professionals Know
19th November, 2013
Successful real estate investors have the knowledge and know-how to select properties that are good investments. For investors that have just entered the market, this can seem like a daunting task. This article helps break down the top five things Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
What Constitutes a Good Commercial Real Estate Investment?
14th November, 2013
There are two types of commercial real estate investors: those that simply desire safe, long-term investment returns and those that are speculative, meaning they will take higher risks for the potential to earn greater long-term rewards. Speculative investing can be Read More
Categories: Loan Funding Tips
A Guide To Finding a Smokin’ Hot Commercial Real Estate Deal
9th November, 2013
With commercial real estate prices plummeting in 2008 by an astonishing 10.6-percent, real estate investors are on the scene, recognizing that lower-than-average property values make an ideal investment opportunity. In fact, a study conducted by Marcus & Millichap Real Estate Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Growing Real Estate Portfolios with Hard Money
4th November, 2013
Hard money is a term used to describe a non-traditional lender that uses the property to secure a loan, instead of a person or entity. Since government programs do not back these loans, the interest rates typically range from 12- Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Top Turnaround Real Estate Markets
22nd October, 2013
Realtor.com® recently published their list of “Turnaround Towns.” The list had some shocking towns listed, but with strong improvements these cities are making a real estate comeback. Reno, Nevada – Hard hit by the recession, Reno has seen a 26-percent Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Commercial Real Estate: Private Money vs. Banks
17th October, 2013
Today, more real estate investors are feeling the harsh restrictions associated with applying for commercial real estate loans. Because many banks are still skittish to loan on commercial transactions, commercial property investors are looking for alternative funding sources. Hard money Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
U.S. Cities That Feature the Best Parks
12th October, 2013
For many people looking for jobs, big cities offer the best resource and selection for good-paying employment. What does city living mean for many people? The following cities are reinventing city dwelling, banishing the assumed concrete fortresses in favor of Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Across the U.S.: Popular Big-City Neighborhoods
7th October, 2013
The U.S. features several mega cities, known for drawing large populations. This article focuses on highlighting the best neighborhoods in big cities, making it easier for home investors and homebuyers to focus their search efforts. Park Slope, New York City Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Top 10 Cities with Affordable U.S. Housing
2nd October, 2013
The term ‘affordable housing’ is not an oxymoron. There are several areas in the U.S. where affordable housing is dominating the real estate market. Whether someone is a real estate investor or a homebuyer looking for a good deal, the Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
What To Know About Rising Interest Rates
23rd September, 2013
With the 30-year mortgage rate near 4.35-percent, up from last year’s low of 3.3-percent, many homebuyers and sellers are finding it difficult to navigate the newly raising loan waters. Below are some helpful tips for consumers: Loans – While loan Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Do Increased Mortgage Rates Indicate Easier Credit Options?
18th September, 2013
After several consecutive years, mortgage rates are on the rise. With refinances dramatically decreasing, banks are beginning to explore new business opportunities. This in turn has some banks decreasing strict loan standards in a desperate attempt to attract new borrowers. Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Home Prices Anticipated to Rise at Fastest Pace Since 1977
14th September, 2013
Housing prices saw a booming recovery for the first half of 2013, with values increasing nearly 10-percent. Experts note that this gain is the fastest increase to hit the housing market since 1977. The CoreLogic Home Price Index, otherwise known Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Commercial Prices Declining: Great Time for Investors
9th September, 2013
No real estate investor wants to purchase at the peak of the market, which is why the saying “buy low, sell high” is predominant in the financial industry. With interest rates continuing to rise, July saw commercial property prices decrease Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Mortgage Delinquencies Are Declining
5th September, 2013
Credit Bureau, TransUnion, reports that the nationwide trend in mortgage delinquencies declining continues. The second quarter of 2013 reported that borrowers that were 60 days or more past due on mortgages fell to an astounding 4.09-percent, highlighting delinquencies declining a Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Selecting the Right Real Estate Agent
31st August, 2013
Whether it’s a real estate investor or a personal home seller, selecting the right real estate agent for each person’s individual needs is important. But how does one go about interviewing real estate agents and selecting one that will adequately Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Selling a Home FAST!
28th August, 2013
The average time for a home to be actively listed on today’s market is 71 days, which is 28 days less than a year ago. What can you do as a seller to help prepare your home for a quick Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Buying a “Fixer-Upper”
25th August, 2013
For people that are looking to purchase a “fixer-upper” a must watch comedy is “The Money Pit.” A hit, cult-classic starring Tom Hanks and Shelley Long, this 1986 movie highlights the comical horrors of renovating a dilapidated home. No one Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Housing Recovery Turnaround
22nd August, 2013
The latest real estate news is good for both the U.S. and worldwide economies. After years of being in a slump, the latest reports show that real estate prices are increasing and inventory is decreasing. A boost in the real Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
The Housing Market is Back!
19th August, 2013
As homebuilder confidence increases, the slight whispers are turning to crowd-pleasing cheers announcing that the housing market is back. The National Association of Home Builder’s index rated 52 last month, making it the first time in more than seven years Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Federal Housing Office Closures
16th August, 2013
For people that are seeking in-person assistance from federal housing authorities, June was a discouraging month. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is planning to close 16 field offices. These offices just happen to be located in Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
New Housing Bubble Woes?
13th August, 2013
As home sales prices continued to increase in May, some experts are expressing concern over this startling surge. In fact, the National Association of Realtors® has said if home building doesn’t increase by 50-percent, we may have yet another housing Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Advice for Sellers and Homebuyers
10th August, 2013
The bottom line is that strategic home pricing can effectively sell a home. Some experts even recommend listing homes at 10-percent below market value, with anticipated returns netting sellers 10-percent more than the current value. However, while this is beneficial Read More
Categories: Loan Funding Tips
Best Places in America to Live
7th August, 2013
“Money” has released their updated list of the best small cities in America to live. The list includes the top 10 cities: Carmel, Indiana – This once quiet town has recently transformed into one that combines work and play, making Read More
Q&A: A Practical Mortgage Guide
4th August, 2013
The world of mortgages can seem daunting and overwhelming. Fortunately, Better Than Loans strives to demystify real estate loans, making it easier for consumers to understand the often-overcomplicated nature of the banking industry. How often can someone refinance? People can Read More
Categories: Loan Funding Tips
10 Booming U.S. Cities
1st August, 2013
Several U.S. cities are starting to see a recovery from the recession that slammed the U.S. economic forecast in 2006. Popular big cities that are recovering include: New York, New York – The largest U.S. city is also the most Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Home Prices Increase
25th July, 2013
According to the S&P/Case-Shiller national index, home prices increased 10.2-percent in the first quarter of 2013. This is excellent news for the housing recovery, as it is the strongest gain in prices since 2006. In fact, the first quarter marked Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Mortgage Rates Increase
18th July, 2013
The trending tide towards decreasing mortgage rates has turned, with May seeing an increase. Mortgage rates were at an all time low in November 2012, which made homebuyers scurry to take advantage of low 3.31-percent rates. With the 30-year-rate being Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Real Estate News: Sellers in the Drivers’ Seats
11th July, 2013
When the real estate market plummeted in 2006, sellers found themselves doused with anxiety and financial worries. Within months, the market went from being a seller’s market to one that was dominated by buyers – with buyers calling nearly 100-percent Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Fast Closings: Hard Money Loans
4th July, 2013
Hard Money loans have the ability to close FAST when all necessary paperwork is in proper order. This allows a real estate investor to obtain access to and ownership of the property sooner, meaning that further investments can be underway. Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Private Lenders Bridging Bank Loan Gaps
27th June, 2013
With the economic downturn and the housing crisis in full swing, many banks are further restricting their lending requirements, tightening their belts in the wake of hand slapping, money losses and angry shareholders. Offering interim bridge loans, hard money lending Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Five Trade Tips: Closing Hard Money Loans Fast
20th June, 2013
Hard money lending is a dominant trend that returns when interest rates increase, and in the case of the housing bubble bursting, banking institutions tightening their belts and becoming mortgage misers. The days of breezing through loan documentation and getting Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Hard Money Loans: Closing Documents
13th June, 2013
While every hard money lender’s requirements vary, there are a number of common documents required by most private money lenders to successfully close a loan. This includes, but is not limited to the following: Executed Purchase and Sale Agreement – Read More
Categories: Loan Funding Tips
Are Hard Money Lenders Just Loan Sharks?
6th June, 2013
This is a question often posed in the real estate industry: are hard money lenders indeed just preying on the public and in fact, just loan sharks? In today’s downturned economy with traditional financial institutions loaning less capital to small Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Hard Money Loans and Bad Credit
30th May, 2013
With many banks redefining credit ratings and underwriters requiring higher credit scores than in traditional year’s past, many people with poor to moderate credit ratings are seeking loans from hard money lending institutions. Fortunately, hard money lenders understand the difference Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Two Home Loans
27th May, 2013
Many homeowners are finding that instead of enduring the higher interest rates of a jumbo loan, they can piggyback loans, which essentially means that they obtain two conventional loans instead of a single jumbo mortgage. A jumbo loan is typically Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
The Latest Housing Market Figures
22nd May, 2013
While March saw a slight increase in foreclosure numbers, the downward foreclosure trend is expected to dominate the real estate market. In fact, statistics show that foreclosures are down a staggering 52-percent since reaching their all-time peak in 2010. Nationwide, Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Home Pricing Boom
17th May, 2013
Homes are once again seeing appreciation at an accelerating rate that hasn’t been witnessed in the last six years. Giving hope to real estate owners, the banking industry and consumers, this is the largest turn around since the real estate Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Down Payments
13th May, 2013
At the very heart of the mortgage debate are down payment rules and regulations. Experts agree that a full-blown U.S. real estate housing market recovery is unlikely, especially considering government regulators cannot determine the minimum down payment amount required by Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Debt Consolidation: Cure All or Trap?
8th May, 2013
Often compared to a politician, debt consolidation companies offer an abundance of promises, but always seem to fail in their delivery. While many of these companies guarantee lower monthly loan payments, decreased interest rates and single payment options, the reality Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Rentals: Mortgage Payments Tax Deductible?
3rd May, 2013
As the housing market begins to pick up again, many investors are finding themselves purchasing fixer-uppers in the hopes to jump head first into the real estate rental market. While rentals can be a profitable endeavor, they don’t come without Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Buyer Beware: Spotting a Meth Lab
29th April, 2013
Every year, thousands of meth lab homes are sold to buyers that are unaware that their new home’s insulation, surfaces and flooring is contaminated by poisonous substances. With many buyers looking at short sales and foreclosures, often times the banks Read More
Categories: Loan Funding Tips
The Best Areas to Buy Foreclosures
26th April, 2013
For homebuyers and investors that are willing to wait out the red and yellow tape involved in short sales and foreclosures, deals abound. Some real estate markets in the U.S. have relatively good deals and then some have hot discounts Read More
Categories: Fast Loan Funding
Five Best U.S. Markets for Homebuyers
23rd April, 2013
There are a number of U.S. real estate markets that are simply on fire, smoldering under the heat of a real estate comeback. The five most popular, up-and-coming markets include: Southern South Carolina – Encompassing several large metropolitan areas, including Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
The Fastest Growing U.S. Boomtowns
20th April, 2013
As some areas of the U.S. are growing so fast, municipalities simply can’t keep up with demand, investors are looking to flock to these popular towns, helping fulfill a need for necessary residential and commercial infrastructures to support rapid growth. Read More
Categories: Hard Money Loans
Housing Market Bouncing Back
17th April, 2013
Across the country, the real estate market is slowly seeing the housing market stabilize and bounce back. The combination of low mortgage rates and steady market demand is coaxing homebuyers out of hiding. In fact, in some cities, the bidding Read More
Categories: Loan Funding Tips
Three ways to utilize a private loan to succeed in the real estate business
14th March, 2013
Hard money loans are often misconstrued and people associate hard money loans with loan sharks. The reality of it is that hard money lenders are not saviors, nor thieves. They are an available resource that is sometimes very necessary in Read More
When is it beneficial to use hard money to buy residential properties?
14th March, 2013
Let’s say there’s a killer real estate deal: a foreclosure just pops on the market for 50-percent below market value. The bank holding the title has too many bank-owned properties, it’s the end of their fiscal year and inventory is Read More
Private Money Lenders Bridge Economic Financing Gap
14th March, 2013
Many hard money lenders can offer more flexible types of loans and terms than traditional banking institutions. Government laws heavily regulate banks, which is why the lending industry has seen such a drastic reduction in the number of completed borrower Read More
Most Common Documents Needed To Close a Hard Money Loan
14th March, 2013
A hard money lender is an excellent alternative to traditional bank financing for real estate investments and properties. An ideal solution for complicated developer projects, fix and flip properties, commercial developments and even raw land subdivisions, hard money lenders typically Read More
How does a hard money lender value property?
14th March, 2013
In today’s real estate world, obtaining a loan is no longer a matter of “when” but a conditional “if.” Traditional banking institutes, heavily slapped by Big Government’s ever-domineering hand – are now required to follow stringent regulations that makes the Read More
Top 5 Reasons to Use a Hard Money Lender
14th March, 2013
In today’s adverse economic times and with the housing bubble bursting into a colorful confetti of government regulated size pieces, many traditional lenders are unable to offer loans, even to borrowers in good standing. If borrowers that have acceptable credit Read More