Showing posts with label fix and flip. Show all posts

Saturday, June 16, 2018

Getting into Fix & Flips? Read This Appraiser’s Advice First

When people hear about Level 4 Funding and the work we do, they often wonder exactly how people put hard money loans to use and create real value with them. Oftentimes, those we help work in the “fix-and-flip” business, rehabbing houses. Of course, the next flurry of questions usually surrounds who does that and how they make it work. We’ve been lucky enough to get a few professional home rehabbers to open up a bit about their work and are highlighting their stories. Jason Maze of Maze Enterprise and Amazing Appraisals was kind enough to give us some insights.

Jason Began as an Appraiser

Working in real estate appraisals, Jason routinely helps home buyers and sellers, as well as other parties such as lawyers and accountants, determine the value of a home. While this is often done in advance of a sale, appraisals are routinely performed anytime knowing the value of a property is beneficial, such as during a divorce or while handling estate planning. Over the years, he really got to know the numbers and specific areas. When the market crashed in 2008, he noticed an interesting trend. Canadians were heading into the area and buying en masse. “We can do that,” he decided. With his experience in value and his wife Jennifer’s lifelong affinity for design, the two ventured into the fix-and-flip business.

He Offers Some Tips for Those Getting into Home Rehabs

We asked Jason what advice he’d give someone who was considering getting into the business. “Go for it,” he says. “Make sure you have crunched your numbers. Buy low, sell low.” Although Jason may have the upper hand in valuation because he’s been in the field for decades and now does about ten flips per year on top of it, he says anyone can get a better idea of the numbers by hiring an appraiser before they purchase a property or prior to selling one.

There are Highs and Lows in the Fix-and-Flip Business

So far, Jason says his and Jennifer’s most rewarding project has been a historic home. With Jennifer’s designs and Jason’s fiscal sense, the outcome was great. However, the icing on the cake was when HGTV contacted the couple and asked about airing it on a show. This particular property, aside from celebrity status, was a bit of a rarity for the duo, as they typically aim for “newer” homes, or those built in the 1970s through now. Jason says they “learned their lesson” about dealing with older homes the hard way by purchasing one sight unseen. When they finally got their hands on it, they realized it was built with mud and straw, then covered in plaster, as opposed to modern building materials. This, he adds, isn’t uncommon for the period. Many homes throughout the southwestern US, particularly in the Phoenix area, were built this way because it’s what the earliest residents had on hand and helped make the desert heat more bearable. Still, it was an unexpected surprise they had to overcome and added a few extra challenges to the rehab.

Jason and Jennifer Have Big Plans

Despite the occasional blip, the fix-and-flip business has been good to the Maze family. The pair does about two homes at a time, continuously adding to their impressive portfolio. This still allows plenty of time for Jason to grow his appraisal business. Jennifer, on the other hand, has been balancing managing the design of their rehab properties with a nursing career, which she may soon leave behind in favor of branching out on her own offering design services to others. Of course, the family is still allowing plenty of time for fun and new adventures together as well. Chat with Jason About Appraisals or Get Info on a Fix & Flip Loan.

If you’d like to chat with Jason about his appraisal services, go to Amazing-Appraisals.com.

You can also visit Level4Funding.com to learn more about loans for your next fix-and-flip project and even begin the application process right on the site. We’ll be sharing more stories from home rehabbers like Jason too, so pop back in soon for the next installment.

Monday, April 30, 2018

How to Evaluate a Property for Hard Money Loans

Real estate property purchases will benefit by knowing some ways to evaluate a property to best obtain hard money loans. Level 4 Funding offers the following tips to best evaluate the property you wish to get a loan for.

When entering the commercial or residential real estate market with the intent to purchase properties, fix them and then sell them for a profit, there are some things you should consider… Especially if you are looking to obtain hard money loans to fund the purchase. The better you are able to evaluate the value and prospective value of the property, the easier time you’ll have persuading lenders to fund your loan.

While unconventional or private lenders that provide investors with hard money loans are primarily interested in the collateral for borrower has to offer. In the case of real estate investors, this is typically the property that is intended to be purchased with the loan.

So it’s important to know what these lenders are going to be looking at when it comes to the property at hand. If you can pre-evaluate these things with a “lender’s eye” you may have an easier time getting approval. Level 4 Funding provides the following criteria: protective equity, which offers investors protection again payment defaults, fluctuations in the market and devaluation of the property; mortgage to value ratio, the property’s percentage of appraised value or quick-sale value – the lower the mortgage amount to the value of the property, the better; resale probability (the quicker the better); the condition of the property – which can affect how much investment will be needed to put into it to make it resalable; and location. The latter is one of the most important aspects of real estate — “location, location, location.” Consider the location of the property above all things.

There are many factors to consider, and each lender may consider some factors more important than others.

While the above are just a few of the major ones, there is a multitude of things that need to be taken into consideration when looking at an investment property. Lenders may be able to advise you as to which they consider to be most important as it related to the current market conditions.

When looking at an investment property, evaluation is a major part of the process.

With certain properties that go on the market, particularly foreclosures, time is of the essence. However, it’s more important to make a complete and unbiased evaluation of the property before jumping in “blind.” By considering all angles and factors, you can make a more education decision as to whether or not this property will be a good investment, and if you will be able to obtain hard money loans based on its current condition. Level 4 Funding can help real estate investors evaluate their property purchases to order to come to a loan agreement for the right property. Call Level 4 Funding today to see how they can help you find the investment property that will become an investment in your success.

Friday, April 13, 2018

Hard Money Lenders: What Rehabbers Need to Know

You find a house that you would like to rehab and flip, but you have never done this type of project before. This is what you need to know when considering getting a loan through a hard money lender.

Time is of the essence when purchasing a property. Especially in today’s market when many sellers are faced with multiple offers. It’s important to have a lender you can work with in a moment’s notice and one that you can develop a long-term relationship with. Various lenders have different requirements. Hard money lenders will either loan on appraised value after repairs or others will loan on the purchase price. You want to find the lender that will loan on the appraised value. A breakdown of the fees will be given to you by the lender, some of them are loan points; closing fees that can include escrow amount, document fees and notary fees; and the interest amount.

Once the hard money lender decides to proceed on your opportunity, you will have a response such as: “We will lend you 60% of the ARV (appraised repair value), 5 points, 500 document fees, 6-month balloon payment loan at 10%.”

Assuming the property is appraised at $200,000, then your loan will be 60% or $120,000. Upfront costs are $6,000 points plus $500 doc fees. $1,167.60 is the loan payment until the property is sold or 6 months is up.

The Lending Process

1) Talk to the lender to see what they require and what you will need

2) Find a proper deal and put it under contract

3) Contact the lender again and inform them about the property you found, repair costs and what you think the ARV is

4) Have the appraiser value the property, either from the loan company or a list that the lender has supplied you

5) If the lender requires, place the documents they need in Escrow

6) The lender will inform you if they will or will not fund the loan, at what amount, and under what terms

7) You set the date to close the loan, either at the title company or the lawyer’s office. The loan company will issue the checks. If the buyer has cash coming back, the loan company will issue this check as well

In recapping, a hard money loan can be used to acquire distressed properties. The speed of the loan is much faster than conventional financing, usually 2-3 days compared to 30-60 days.

The hard money loans are for terms of 1 to 5 years with interest rates of between 10% to 20% and points between 4% to 7%. The advantage of using a hard money lender is that there is a low threshold for the securing of the loan. It is based mainly on the property value and not your credit or income. A drawback is that, with some lenders, you will need to have the cash to do the repairs and either flip the house or rent it within 6 months. Contact Level 4 Funding to talk with the people who know how to guide you through the process. It’s important to consult with experts as you move forward, especially if this is your first adventure into rehabbing.

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

OCC Study reveals risks from Commercial loans

The OCC warns in its semi-annual risk report that relaxed underwriting standards may be putting some commercial loans at risk of default. Should you be worried?

The report warns that specific influences on the credit market may be causing some banks to lower borrower standards. "The credit market continues to be influenced by strong competition, particularly from non - bank lenders, and heightened asset valuations," the report claims. In effect, strong competition for new loans may be pressuring some banks to lower standards on borrowers.

The report also warns that the recent economic boom may be making some lenders complacent and that lenders may need to take greater caution in case of an economic downturn. "In addition, the long economic recovery and expansion may collectively increase lender complacency. In this environment, lenders need to focus on maintaining sound credit standards within risk tolerances and understanding the potential credit risks that may be exposed under less benign economic conditions."

The report claims banks need to be cautious and may need to diversify their lending activities. The authors of the report, the National Risk Coalition, cite commercial mortgage growth as a specific area of concern. The NRC claims,"increasing concentrations of commercial real estate (CCRE)loans highlight the need for sound risk management processes and the effectiveness in managing concentration risk for some banks."

In spite of the dangers key commercial loan metrics remain are strong

The report claims that key metrics of commercial credit quality such as delinquencies, nonperforming loans, and net charge-offs remain positive. These key measures improved over the second half of last year and remain elevated above historical averages. Commercial credit quality is stronger than any time since the 1980s according to the statistics. New business loans have moderated from the 25% growth levels seen in recent years but remain above GDP according to the report. Non-depository groups such as investment firms and finance companies receive the majority of these new loans.

Smaller banks may be relaxing underwriting standards to fuel commercial loan growth, which could be a dangerous trend should an economic slowdown occur

Assessments by OCC evaluators reveal a gradual easing of borrower standards at many banks. Since the first quarter of 2016, the majority of banks have relaxed lending standards, rather than tightening them. The trend reflects a gradual easing of underwriting standards which began in 2013, as the economy started to recover from the recession. Even though banks are relaxing their standards, the report concludes that the majority of banks are still lending within their risk tolerances and are maintaining relatively safe underwriting practices.

However, there remains a concern that the growth in commercial mortgages may be putting some lenders at risk. Specifically smaller banks with less than a 1 billion dollars or less in assets. While business lending declined overall last year, the majority of new business loans originated from these smaller banks. Data indicates that these groups are supplementing a declining volume of residential mortgages with commercial mortgages. This narrow and specific focus on commercial mortgages may put these smaller financial institutions at risk if economic conditions change and more borrowers default.

However, the report also claims underwriting standards remain reasonable, credit quality is high, and that the economy is strong. Whether banks will heed the conclusions of the report remains to be seen.

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.

Technorati Tags: commercial loans,commercial lending,commercial mortgage

Monday, March 19, 2018

How Short Term Commercial Loans Can Help Your Business Dreams Come True

Can you really take your business to the next level? You can with the help of commercial loans to help you finance the next phase of your company, and Level 4 Funding explains how.

If you need cash fast to put a down payment on a property for a new location, for example, short-term commercial loans are the perfect option. Unlike conventional bank loans that typically have five- to ten-year terms, short-terms are defined by shorter repayment schedules that are designed to be paid off in between three months to three years. Usually these loans have higher approval rates than long-term loans, and can be paid in smaller daily or weekly payments versus a monthly lump sum. Ensure you can manage the daily or weekly payments prior to agreeing on the terms of this loan.

Short-term commercial loans are great for businesses because they are typically approved a lot quicker, which means you get cash in hand quicker in comparison to a conventional lender application and approval process. New businesses can get approved for these loans, which can actually make it easier for them to get approval for long-term or more traditional loans in the future. Prior loans — and proof of paying them off — give lenders peace of mind that you can pay off a loan.

Short-terms are also easier for new businesses to get approval or for companies that haven’t yet established a business credit history. Once credit history is established with a short-term loan that is another way to help future loan approvals from traditional banks. Usually lenders specializing in shot-term loans do not require a minimum on credit score as conventional lenders typically do, especially for long-term loans.

One of the best benefits of short-term commercial loans is that their approval time is fast – which means you can get your funding fast.

With these loans, businesses can receive their cash advance in just 24 hours, give or take. This is important for many reasons as a company is looking to expand, but it can also be just the thing a business needs if they are cash-tight and need to handle payroll or pay their vendors. Fast cash is one of the reasons short terms are so desirable for new and expanding businesses that are having growing pains or “tight” times.

It’s important to know that while there are many benefits to short terms, there are some disadvantages to be aware of, too.

While these short terms are very helpful to businesses, there are some drawbacks. For example, the annual percentage rate tends to be much higher with loans like this than the APR of conventional loans because the amount of time the loanee has to pay back the loan amount is much shorter. While there are very short reschedule periods of three to six months, it might be more reasonable to negotiate a (relatively) longer payment schedule up to three years. There are also lender fees and other costs that may be associated with short terms so it’s important to know what those are before you proceed.

Technorati Tags: commercial loans,commercial lending,commercial mortgage

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Why Asking the Right Questions is Important While Finding the Right Hard Money Lender

Working with the right hard money lenders is important on so many levels. Many things need to be considered like the location, property type and intended use for the loan. That is why choosing a lender that specializes in hard money is a good idea. Just make sure to ask the right questions to know you are choosing the right one.

A reputable lender will have no issues openly answering any questions that you have. Some questions that are commonly asked include, who decides approval of the loan? Is there any way I can speak directly with that person? Which law firm do you work with to document the information? Don’t be afraid to ask any questions that you may have.

Asking about providing references is also common and it is totally fine to ask for them or to even ask for examples of similar transactions that have financed or approved. Hard money lenders that shows signs of being reluctant to answering these questions or shows any hesitation, could be a red flag and should cause you to dig deeper to find out more information about the lender.

Feel free to ask about how they can work with you if you are unable to qualify for any conventional loans because of things like poor credit. Establishing a trusting relationship with your hard money lenders is going to help you in the long run. You always want to be upfront with your lender and feel comfortable talking about your finances and needs with them. In return, they should always be upfront with you as well.

Always discuss your plans for the future and what you are using the extra funds for.

The first thing to do is decide how you will use the funds and how you want to restructure repayments. Always be thorough with your research. Once you are able to find the right property you want to use your extra funds for, discuss all of these things and what you plan for the future with your lender. They should be involved in the process to help you make the best financial decisions for your plan.

Trusting your hard money lenders is one of the most important factors.

When working closely with anyone on your finances, you want to make sure you trust them completely. Finding a reliable lender will make you feel comfortable asking any questions that you may have and feel comfortable discussing all of your finances. Your lender should be open to answering any questions and should be as helpful as they can throughout the process.

Technorati Tags: commercial loans,commercial lending,commercial mortgage

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

How to Make Your Retirement Dreams Come True With Hard Money Loans Texas!

When it comes to retirement savings, most people know the basics, 401ks, 457s, 403s, stocks, bonds, and many more options. But, did you know there are several disadvantages to these traditional options. Namely, they are dependent on the stock market, which we all know can be fickle, to say the least.

With ups and downs in the market, many folks are finding that they are losing their retirement savings. Take the story of one of my employees, for example. Her husband is a fire fighter with the majority of his retirement savings in a 457 fund. This quarter, they LOST $20,000. Now luckily, they are young and have time to make that money back, but all I could think when she was telling me this was how much better off they would have been investing in hard money loans Texas.

You are probably thinking why, what makes hard money loans Texas a better retirement option than many traditional plans? Well, the answer is simple, hard money loans Texas are not dependent on the stock market and don't fluctuate from day to day as drastically. This is because hard money loans Texas are a real estate investment which is generally more stable since it is not affected by an earthquake in Brazil or the quality of the air in China (seriously, these things can and do tank the stock market).

If my employee and her husband had used that twenty grand as a down payment for a Texas hard

money loan, they could have worked with Texas hard money lenders to fund the rest of the capital for a real estate purchase. They could have purchased a fix and flip property, vacation rental, or even a long term rental property. These would have made them money as either a fix and flip or long term monthly income. Either way, I guarantee they would have made well more than $20,000 and lost nothing if they made a smart investment. Much better than waiting and hoping there isn't a nuclear power plant meltdown in Japan.

When you are investing in hard money loans Texas, it is important to keep a few things in mind to help minimize your risk and maximize your profit. Always work with professional Texas hard money lenders who have experience with hard money loans Texas. Each state has different regulations so having a lender who knows the laws in Texas is key. Also, make sure to work with a real estate agent who knows his stuff when you buy the property and always do your due diligence as far as appraisals and inspections go.

If you work hard, you may find that hard money loans Texas are not only a great way to supplement your retirement income, but may also become a full-time job and passion.

Dennis Dahlberg
Broker/RI/CEO/MLO

Level 4 Funding LLC
Arizona Tel: (623) 582-4444
Texas Tel: (512) 516-1177
dennis@level4funding.com
www.Level4Funding.com

NMLS 1057378 | AZMB 0923961 | MLO 1057378
23335 N 18th Drive Suite 120
Phoenix AZ 85027

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 38 years. They have 2 beautiful daughters 4 amazing grandchildren. Dennis has been an Arizona resident for the past 32 years.

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Saturday, June 16, 2018

Getting into Fix & Flips? Read This Appraiser’s Advice First

Jason Began as an Appraiser

He Offers Some Tips for Those Getting into Home Rehabs

There are Highs and Lows in the Fix-and-Flip Business

Jason and Jennifer Have Big Plans

Monday, April 30, 2018

How to Evaluate a Property for Hard Money Loans

Real estate property purchases will benefit by knowing some ways to evaluate a property to best obtain hard money loans. Level 4 Funding offers the following tips to best evaluate the property you wish to get a loan for.

Friday, April 13, 2018

Hard Money Lenders: What Rehabbers Need to Know

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

OCC Study reveals risks from Commercial loans

The OCC warns in its semi-annual risk report that relaxed underwriting standards may be putting some commercial loans at risk of default. Should you be worried?

Monday, March 19, 2018

How Short Term Commercial Loans Can Help Your Business Dreams Come True

Can you really take your business to the next level? You can with the help of commercial loans to help you finance the next phase of your company, and Level 4 Funding explains how.

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Why Asking the Right Questions is Important While Finding the Right Hard Money Lender

Always discuss your plans for the future and what you are using the extra funds for.

Trusting your hard money lenders is one of the most important factors.

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

How to Make Your Retirement Dreams Come True With Hard Money Loans Texas!