Learn To Be A Fix & Flip Investor

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

California Hard Money Investors

By now you know that the wonderful world of hard money is more than just a world full of borrowers and lenders i.e. you know there another key player, especially when dealing with California hard money financing. So, let’s talk about those lovely investors and the best ways to invest in hard money.

Hard money financing is becoming the loan option of choice for many people for a variety of different reasons. But, the truth is most people simply want to move ahead with their commercial business projects on schedule without any unnecessary red tape. Of course, that lovely red tape that seems to go hand-in-hand with traditional lending options and banks is the response to the condition of the market meltdown, if you will.

But, market meltdown or not (which clearly things have been gradually improving since), business projects did not stop hence the rise of hard money financing, especially the rise of California hard money financing. With that being said, you may have wondered where all that precious California hard money comes from? Well, typically it comes from multiple investors or sometimes only one investor depending on the size or rather amount of the loan.

These particular investors are business savvy and know that hard money investing can be profitable as well as rewarding if they play their cards right. But, how do they play their cards right with such ease? Two words: due diligence. Due diligence basically, makes the world go round or rather the world of investing. But, nonetheless, it because these business savvy investors take the time to do their research, work closely with experienced lenders that specialize in this particular niche and carefully evaluate the terms of their potential investment that they are able to make money while simultaneously funding your commercial business dreams.

How to Make Money When Investing

In addition to working with experienced lenders and doing their due diligence, most savvy investors also seek advice from a third-party. In other words, a lender and an investor may seem like they are on the same page but it is always best to double check via independent counsel. Furthermore, independent counsel can ensure that personal guarantees are made when the investment requires them. Other ways that these commercial investors stay in the black by reviewing all documentation that is pertinent to their investment such as title endorsements, etc. and one way to stay on top of all relevant documentation is to work with a reputable loan service that they are personally comfortable with. Lastly, it almost goes without saying that these particular commercial investors never put all their eggs in one basket i.e. keeping things diversified is the name of the game and it always will be.

Risk less with Your Investments

Clearly, no investment can be made without some level of risk associated with it, regardless of how much due diligence and careful consideration occurs. But, an investor can increase his or her chances of making a wise investment that ultimately is a win-win situation for everyone involved by doing all that they can and by following the necessary steps mentioned above.

About the author: Dennis has been working in the real estate industry in some capacity for the last 40 years. He purchased his first property when he was just 18 years old. He quickly learned about the amazing investment opportunities provided by trust deed investing and hard money loans. His desire to help others make money in real estate investing led him to specialize in alternative funding for real estate investors who may have trouble getting a traditional bank loan. Dennis is passionate about alternative funding sources and sharing his knowledge with others to help make their dreams come true.

Dennis has been married to his wonderful wife for 42 years. They have 2 beautiful daughters 5 amazing grandchildren. Dennis has been an Arizona resident for the past 40 years.

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

California Private Money – How to be a Successful Lender

Often when discussing California private money, you hear about what the borrower needs to do or what they can do to increase their chances of finding a good deal. Well, it’s time to look at the other side of things and discuss what a lender can do to stand out amongst the crowd.

So you are in the business of lending and you want to know what you can do be successful? Well, for starters, if you are a California private money lender then you know you’ve got some competition. But, you may not be too clear on why there are so many California private money lenders and that’s okay. Just think about why you decided to stay local or start up a private lending practice in this particular state? More than likely, you did it because California state law is a little more lender-friendly versus other states that have the only the borrower’s best interest at heart.

Nevertheless, the point is you are not alone hence you want to stand out. Well, the good news is there are a variety of ways to do just that. For instance, remember why you wanted to stay local? You wanted too because it was a smart move for you as a private lender right? Well, guess what the first tip for being a successful lender is to continue to stay local. This is the first tip because you are expert in your area and the majority of borrowers you choose to work will be within 75 miles or less of your office. Moreover, staying local will allow you to have a better feel for what or who you are ultimately investing in so once again—you get it.

Another bona fide way to stand out and stay successful is to know what you are good at i.e. find your lending niche. In other words, if the majority of your borrowers are closing on million dollar commercial properties then there’s your answer. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with a little diversification but chances are you can better serve people who needs are familiar to you.

Important Things to Consider

Other important things to keep in mind are your overall appearance to the outside world. For example, you should always to strive for transparency with your existing borrowers and your potential borrowers. Remember, references are a big deal in this industry thus one bad reference affects your bottom line. Furthermore, you are in the business of making hard-to-fund dreams come true so why try to be something you are not. In addition to keeping it transparent, you should also be focused in your marketing i.e. no one wants to borrow from a lender that approves all loan types so be specific at about what you do best in your advertising.

Be that Helping Hand

Ultimately, the best way to stand out is to keep investing in yourself. This means going to commercial real estate seminars and industry conferences, staying up-to-date on your local lending laws as well as be professional in the way you conduct your business.

Dennis has been married to his wonderful wife for 42 years. They have 2 beautiful daughters 5 amazing grandchildren. Dennis has been an Arizona resident for the past 40 years.

Monday, September 12, 2016

How to find a California Private Hard Money Lender

When it comes to finding a California private hard money lender, you probably don’t even know where to begin or rather how to start a viable search and that is okay. In California, there are so many lender options that you will more than likely need a helping hand.

Generally, when you are trying to a reputable California private hard money lender the first place you should start is by checking the nationwide lender directory online. This particular directory allows you or anyone to search by loan type, loan size, location or keyword such as construction loan, etc. Moreover, this directory will provide you with direct access to your potential lenders in general or specific private non-bank lenders. In addition to searching for a California private hard money lender via the nationwide lender directory, you can also ask for references from your business associates.

Regardless, of which search method you choose to take advantage of, finding a few good names doesn’t mean you are done. Clearly, you need to contact at least your top 10 lenders and present each of them or the majority of them your loan scenario. Remember, it is important to find a lender that is likely to approve your loan request, but it is also important to work with someone that you feel comfortable working with.

Once you have set your sights on your future lender, the next step is clearly the application process. Nevertheless, it is still important to highlight that you make sure your future lender offers the commercial real estate loan type that is right for your business venture or project. By taking the time to make sure you have chosen your best option as well as the most compatible private lender you will ultimately save yourself a lot of time and money.

Application Process Advice

The application process of private money financing is typically the next step if we want to simplify the overall process. In other words, if you choose to work with a broker then step one is making sure you that you have an acceptable deal before signing your contract. Once you have properly vetted your lenders and signed your contract, you should get in touch with an appraisal company at least for an estimate of your proposed commercial building or of the real estate that you want to use as collateral. Of course, most lenders will want to use their own third-party appraiser, but at least you will have a clear idea of the value of your collateral.

Private Money Broker can lend a Helping Hand

The actual application itself is often not difficult to fill out and generally requires bank statements/ tax information. A private money broker can quickly take care of this for you if you so choose. After the application is completed and credit reports have been pulled, your lender will begin the underwriting process. While your lender is reviewing your application you should be taking this down time to coordinate with your real estate attorney and/or title company in order to close on your commercial property.

Dennis has been married to his wonderful wife for 42 years. They have 2 beautiful daughters 5 amazing grandchildren. Dennis has been an Arizona resident for the past 40 years.

How to find a California Private Hard Money Lender

When it comes to finding a California private hard money lender, you probably don’t even know where to begin or rather how to start a viable search and that is okay. In California, there are so many lender options that you will more than likely need a helping hand.

Application Process Advice

Private Money Broker can lend a Helping Hand

Dennis has been married to his wonderful wife for 42 years. They have 2 beautiful daughters 5 amazing grandchildren. Dennis has been an Arizona resident for the past 40 years.

How to Fix & Flip Homes - 8 Things You Must Do To Be A Successful Home Flipper

1. Calculate your profit before you purchase the home.

The old saying is “you make your profit when you purchase the home not when you sell it”. This means calculating a profit and lost analysis on the Fix & Flip project before you purchase. Determine the profit before you purchase – work backwards. Don’t do a project unless there is a clear profit potential. Calculate your profit/Loss. Sales price less costs is your profit.

1. Costs for Fix & Flip

Acquisition
Purchase Price

Back Taxes and other liens

HOA Fees

Keys

Bid or Real Estate Fees

Closing Costs

Repairs

Contractor or do it yourself

Appliances + much more

Holding

Cost of capital to hold

Payments on hard money loan

Utilities
Insurance

Maintenance

Selling

Real Estate Commissions

Staging

Title closing costs

Marketing Plans

Administration

Bookkeeping accounting

Other non-related expenses

2. Have a good team of Contractors/others to do the work.

Suppliers

Real Estate Agent (hopefully it will be you)

Hard Money Lenders (give me a call)

Insurance agents

3. Get educated.

Don’t start buying homes without knowing the process. The best way to get started is to get your Real Estate license. Yes, it’s work, but it will give you the knowledge you need to understand how homes are transferred and the laws associated with real estate. Also, you will have access to the multiple listing service, which is invaluable for your research. Plus you can avoid the partial cost of the seller commission since you will be the listing agent. Every successful flipper I’ve ever meet had their real estate license.

4. Be patient.

There used to be a lot of homes being sold on the court room steps, sometimes a 1,000 homes per day. Today there are a lot less homes to purchase. You need to look at other ways of purchasing and finding deals. It’s going to take time to find, fix and sell. You can do it, but it’s going to take time. In the real estate investment world, timing is everything.

5. Have Money.

Don’t believe those people on the radio that say you can buy homes for no cash down. It’s not true.

You are going to have to have cash, skin in the game to purchase the home. Private hard money will require a down payment of 20-30% of the purchase price. And it’s not going to be cheap when you start. Rates vary from 9-18%. Don’t forget to calculate the cost of Hard Money in your profit and loss in item 1 above. Some hard money lenders market their loans as having the potential to fund an investment at 100% LTC (Loan-To-Cost), meaning a borrower won’t have to put a dime into the project. Although there are some scenarios where this is true, it’s very rare. There are some lenders that will participate in the deal. These lenders will fund the deal and share in the profit when the deal is completed. However, all of the participating lenders put a great deal of their decision on working with you on your response to #3 above and still require 10% of your money in the deal.

6. Don’t buy something you can’t fix or ever sell.

There are a lot of deals out there and they are deals for a reason. Some are in a situation, so bad, no matter how much money and work you put into the home, you will never sell it. For example a home built on top a land fill, or next to a dump, or sewage treatment facility, or the final approach to an major airport. You are not going to be able to fix these problems.

7. Buy your project through your LLC.

There is a lot of tax and liability reasons to do this. Plus, private lenders prefer to lend to LLCs.

8. It’s going to be work.

Don’t believe what you see on those flipping shows. You will have to work at it and it will take time. You need to visit the property and make sure the work is progressing correctly. After the home is completed and on the market, you will need to walk the property daily. So where do you start? I suggest that you start with #3 Get Educated. However, don’t go and pay for those weekend training seminars that cost 1,000s of dollars. Start at your local Real Estate School and get your State License.

About ME.

Hi, my name is Dennis Love.

I’m a business owner like you with over 40 years of business experience helping business owners around the world, including 7-figure businesses, small businesses and startup businesses that now make millions of dollars per year.

But the question is why do I do this? Personally, I had a very special person do something for me in the past to help me in my life. That person help me to grow to be the best that I could possibly be. This person sacrificed everything to help me to the point that in their efforts they died for me. It’s hard to understand this amount of sacrifice. It’s hard to swallow, but I learned from sacrifice of this special person that living is not taking but that in giving to others is when you really achieve true purpose and happiness. That’s why I do this. I want to be of service to you so you can achieve the dreams, success and happiness that you long for in your business.

Servicing others is the true wealth and the path for happiness. When you are successful, I’m successful. So with that let me tell you about my recent struggles.

I have personally helped business owners who were on the verge of going out of business to making a profit in as little as a few weeks.

But you want to know something interesting? Just a few years ago my wife and I were homeless and living in the van and sleeping in the office. That’s true! After 30 years my business was failing and I was laying off 100’s of employees. I was losing $250,000 per month and was going down in flaming colors. The only cash I had remaining was the credit line on my credit card, and after I maxed this out I had nothing but the van and luckily a wife who still had faith in me. Creditors were calling; I was being sued and hauled into court to stand before the judge subject to debtor exams. I had judgments filed against me, and creditors coming to the office and seizing assets. I tried everything but nothing worked. I just kept going losing money, more money and more money --- till it was all gone. I lost my business, cars, airplane, and even the home I was living in.

Everything gone!

No matter how hard I tried flipping homes, even though I worked 14 hours per day, nothing was working. I was so stressed that I ground down my teeth down and cracked every tooth. I had to find another way of making money flipping homes that would not cost me 1000’s of dollars. I could no longer spend thousands of dollars which I no longer had, on the old school approach that that cost 1000’s had returned nothing.

Finally late one night I found myself sitting on the edge of the bed with a gun in my hand and the memories’ of the business past. Than I had an awakening.

I heard a voice that said “what you think and feel is not reality; flipping homes is not brain surgery; it really is easy; you can do it.”

How hard can it be!

You just need to get educated and find out how other companies are making money flipping homes.

So after many failures I figured it out. I wrote this basic guide to help you. Servicing others is the true wealth and the path for happiness. When you are successful, I’m successful.

Dennis Love, DennisLove.com are spoke persons or trademarks of Lever 4 Funding LLC an Arizona Limited Liability Company. This is for educational purposes and you should contact competent individuals such as Attorneys, CPA, Real Estate Brokers for expert advice. Information presented is not considered accurate and complete. To the extent this message includes any tax or legal

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Friday, September 9, 2016

California Private Money Construction Loans

California private money financing can be used for a variety of business purpose such as new construction or remodeling/updating your current commercial property. So let’s go over a few important details when it comes to using private financing for construction loans.

California private money construction loans are generally the way to go when your new business venture is one of construction or remodeling. It is the way to go because, as anyone in the commercial real estate business will tell you traditional financing avenues are less likely to approve loans for construction purpose. This somewhat reason change in lending doesn’t mean that California private money construction loans are instantly approved but rather that non-bank lenders are willing to fund these kinds of loans if they meet the necessary requirements.

Typically, these requirements allow non-bank lenders to feel more confident in their assumed risk. Therefore, when dealing with these lenders, it is important to keep in mind several key factors that have the ability to make or break your new construction or remodeling funding. One key factor, in particular, that you should make note is your desired location for your project or if you are remodeling an existing commercial property make note of the actual benefit of the upgrades to your business. Remember, your lender has to be comfortable with what you are using, in essence, their money for.

Another important key factor here is the overall process of the construction i.e. the actual draw process of your builder, if applicable to your situation. In other words, if your lender is insisting that the builder is paid via the title company—you need to understand how that process works. You also need to understand California state lien laws. Similarly, it is important to know where your lender stands in regard to the lot cost/lien when dealing with new construction.

Other Things to Consider

Unsurprisingly, other things you should be considering are your potential lender’s down payment requirements. As you are more likely already aware of, there are state regulations that affect your lender’s requirements, rates and fees. But, with that being said, there is a wealth of non-bank lenders, especially in California. Consequently, as long as non-bank lenders abide by the set state regulations, there is still some wiggle room i.e. lenders rates can still vary as long as they do not exceed a certain percent amount. So be clear on what you need as well as how much of a deposit you are able to come up with and do not forget to do your research so you are clear on general terms/fees.

New Construction Dreams come true

Ultimately, if you are prepared and keep in mind the above-mentioned important key factors, getting approved for non-bank funded construction loan should not be extremely difficult. Lastly, if your project calls for more than one construction loan as in the case of real estate development projects do not be discouraged many non-bank lenders are willing to work with you and allow you to have more than one active loan at a time.

Dennis has been married to his wonderful wife for 42 years. They have 2 beautiful daughters 5 amazing grandchildren. Dennis has been an Arizona resident for the past 40 years.

Thursday, September 8, 2016

The Benefits of California Hard Money Loans

Considering a California hard money loan for your next commercial project or business plan? If that’s where your financing search is headed then it’s important to know the pros and cons.

By know you know California hard money loans are some of the most readily available hard money financing options, which is great for shopping around for the best rates and terms. But, in general, you may be wondering what exactly the benefits or rather advantages of California hard money loans are? Moreover, you may also want to know exactly what the disadvantages are of these particular kinds of loans. Well, the good news is the benefits outweigh the disadvantages by far.
For instance, starting out with the benefits, you will find out early on that these particular loans are approved and funded quickly, which is often the main reason people choose to use hard money in the first place. The next benefit you will find is that hard money financing options have fewer requirements. This means that unlike traditional financing options or bank lending you will not have to deal with an exorbitant amount of red tape. Consequently, common red flags such as bad credit, a previous foreclosure or bankruptcies are less likely to harm your chances of getting approved.
Another major benefit to hard money is the ability to get a project funded that you were unable to get funded or rather financed anywhere else. One common example is a fix and flip project. Often, banks are not interested in short-term lending. This is not to say that banks do not offer short-term options but rather that banks are in the business of making money and the easiest way to do that is to approve long-term loans more often. Furthermore, banks look at these kinds of projects such as a fix and flip as high-risk which only make getting financing harder.

The Pitfalls of Hard Money

So now that we’ve covered the major benefits of all things hard money, let’s talk about those pesky pitfalls and disadvantages. The top disadvantage when dealing with hard money financing is of course that higher than average interest rate. But, in reality, just as banks need to make a profit and are concerned about high-risk borrowers, non-bank lenders need to see some return on their investment hence the higher rates. Disadvantage number 2 is the fact that hard money financing is only available for short-term use. This means if you are looking for financing for a project that others have deemed high-risk for more than 1-5 years you may have to look elsewhere.

Commercial Hard Money

Lastly, hard money loans require either a minimum amount of equity i.e. at least 25% or a significant down payment. In the world of Commercial hard money, that minimum amount becomes 40% and the down payment is much larger. This increase is ultimately due to the fact that if there is a default, selling the commercial property is much harder to do and often requires a discounted sale price in order to recoup what the non-bank lender lost.

Learn To Be A Fix & Flip Investor

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Wednesday, September 14, 2016

California Hard Money Investors

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

California Private Money – How to be a Successful Lender

Often when discussing California private money, you hear about what the borrower needs to do or what they can do to increase their chances of finding a good deal. Well, it’s time to look at the other side of things and discuss what a lender can do to stand out amongst the crowd.

Important Things to Consider

Be that Helping Hand

Monday, September 12, 2016

How to find a California Private Hard Money Lender

When it comes to finding a California private hard money lender, you probably don’t even know where to begin or rather how to start a viable search and that is okay. In California, there are so many lender options that you will more than likely need a helping hand.

Application Process Advice

Private Money Broker can lend a Helping Hand

How to find a California Private Hard Money Lender

When it comes to finding a California private hard money lender, you probably don’t even know where to begin or rather how to start a viable search and that is okay. In California, there are so many lender options that you will more than likely need a helping hand.

Application Process Advice

Private Money Broker can lend a Helping Hand

How to Fix & Flip Homes - 8 Things You Must Do To Be A Successful Home Flipper

Friday, September 9, 2016

California Private Money Construction Loans

California private money financing can be used for a variety of business purpose such as new construction or remodeling/updating your current commercial property. So let’s go over a few important details when it comes to using private financing for construction loans.

Other Things to Consider

New Construction Dreams come true

Thursday, September 8, 2016

The Benefits of California Hard Money Loans

Considering a California hard money loan for your next commercial project or business plan? If that’s where your financing search is headed then it’s important to know the pros and cons.

The Pitfalls of Hard Money

Commercial Hard Money

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