As an investor, you’ve likely heard about hard money loans. In addition to being a valid financing option, hard money loans offer real estate investors a wide range of flexibility when it comes to their investments.

What to Look for in a Lender

To take advantage of the benefits that hard money loans have to offer, you need to find the right lender. Though many real estate investors do use hard money loans to fund their purchases, the industry itself can be a bit harrowing to navigate. If you’re new to borrowing, you’ll need to do a fair amount of background research to learn more about the lenders in your community.

When you’ve narrowed down your list, be sure to ask all potential lenders the following questions:

• Do you have a license ID?

  All hard money lenders are required by their state to have a real estate broker license ID. If a lender is not licensed, they are operating illegally. If you want to do your own research on a lender, you can search through the state website for your local real estate bureau.

• Do you have experience with hard money lending?

  The most experienced hard money lenders are your best bet whether it is your first time or fiftieth. Working with a well-versed money lender will allow you to get your cash fast while they also teach you valuable information about the entire hard money process.

• What are the interest rates?

  Interest rates are often downplayed during the application process for hard money loans. However, going in to ask for a loan without a thorough understand of the interest rates is not a wise decision. Many lenders charge interest rates that go into the double-digits, so it’s better to know upfront whether or not you can afford a loan like this.

• Are there any additional fees?

  Hidden fees are something else investors must watch out for when applying for a hard money loan. While some lenders are open about the fees, others add them on as hidden expenses. Rather than be surprised by the final amount you’ll have to pay when the loan is due, ask a potential lender in the beginning if they charge additional fees.

• How will the loan be repaid?

  Though most hard money lenders require a final balloon payment at the end of the term, this isn’t always the case. Ask the lender if you will be expected to make payments on the interest throughout the term or if no payments are required. If the answer is no, determine if the lender expects a single balloon payment when the loan comes due. The answer to questions regarding payments will allow you to decide if hard money loans are a financially sound solution.

• Can a borrower with an owner-occupied property obtain a loan?

  Individuals looking to cash in on the benefits of hard money loans in mesquite, Texas will find that very few lenders will loan money intended for an individual’s primary residence. However, with enough research, you may find a few lenders that will.

Choosing a Reputable Lender

Just as it is important to ask lenders the aforementioned questions, you should keep in mind that not all lenders will have your best interests at heart. Some newer investors fall victim to loan sharks disguised as reputable hard lenders. The fastest way to avoid a scam like this is to check their information against what is published on the website of the real estate bureau for your state.

Once you see if they are licensed, check the interest rates. If the rates go beyond the usury limit for your state, you’ve found a disreputable lender.

Hard money loans aren’t hard to find—but be careful in your search for a lender. Just as your property purchase is an investment, make you sure your choice of lender is a good one as well.