Resources
Hard money loan documents checklist
Useful things to have ready when you talk to a lender. None of this is needed to send us an inquiry. It just helps things move faster once your deal is being reviewed.
Why preparation helps
Hard money lenders can move quickly, but speed usually comes from a clear picture of the deal. When a lender can see the property, the plan and who is borrowing, there are fewer back-and-forth questions.
Every lender has its own process, so the exact list will vary. Use this as a starting point, and gather what you can. A specialist can tell you what matters most for your deal.
About the property
This helps a lender understand what they would be lending against.
Purchase contract
If you are buying, a signed copy with any addenda or assignment. It confirms price, parties and the closing date.
Property address and photos
Recent photos are a quick way to show condition, especially for a property that needs work.
Leases or rent roll
If the property is tenanted or you plan to rent it, current leases or expected rents help.
Existing loan details
For a refinance, a recent mortgage statement or payoff figure.
About the project
Most useful for fix and flip, construction and other projects with planned work.
Scope of work and budget
A line-by-line rehab or build budget. Ideally it matches the renovation funds you plan to request.
Timeline
A rough schedule of how long the work and the sale or refinance should take.
Contractor details
A contractor bid or agreement, if you have one.
Plans and permits
For ground-up or major work: drawings, permits or entitlement status where available.
About you or your company
Lenders mainly focus on the property, but they still want to know who they are working with.
Photo ID
A clear copy of a driver's license or passport for each person signing.
Entity documents
If you buy through an LLC or corporation: articles of organization, operating agreement and EIN letter.
Proof of funds
Recent bank statements showing your down payment and cash to close.
Track record
A simple list of past projects or properties you have owned, if you have them. First-time investors are still considered by many partners.
Your plan
A short summary often does more than a stack of paperwork.
Exit strategy
How you expect to repay the loan, whether that is a sale, a refinance or something else.
Estimated after-repair value
If the value will rise after work, any comparable sales you have looked at.
One-page deal summary
Price, loan amount needed, timeline and exit in a few lines.
Keep reading
Learn how hard money loans work, estimate costs with the loan calculator, or read the guides for fix and flip and construction projects.
Common questions
Tell us about your deal
Share what you have so far. You don't need every document ready to get started.
Get your financing options
Share the basics and a specialist will review your options with you. All credit considered.