About Hard Money Loans

A “hard money loan” is a loan in which the loan decision is primarily based on the value of the property (the “hard asset”).  This is in contrast to loan criteria such as income history, ability to pay, and credit history.  Hard money loans are often originated quickly compared to traditional lenders.  Banks may require high credit scores, high taxable income, and lots of verification, etc.  Alternatively, hard money lenders often have very few criteria.  Hard money lenders often can underwrite and fund a loan in a matter of days rather than weeks or months.  The term “hard money loan” may mean different things.