
Small private money lenders are individuals or small businesses that lend money to borrowers who may not qualify for traditional bank loans. They often offer more flexible terms and faster funding.
These lenders typically require a minimum credit score of 650 and a debt-to-income ratio of 40% or less. They also often look for a down payment of at least 20% of the property's value.
Some private money lenders specialize in specific types of loans, such as fix-and-flip loans or hard money loans. They may also have different interest rates and repayment terms depending on the type of loan.
What is a Small Private Money Lender?
A small private money lender is an individual or a small group of investors who lend money to borrowers who may not qualify for traditional bank loans. They often have a more flexible approach to lending.
Small private money lenders typically focus on short-term, high-interest loans, usually with a repayment term of 6-24 months. This is because they're taking on more risk than traditional lenders.

They usually lend to borrowers who are looking to purchase or refinance a property, often with a lower credit score or other credit issues. This can include real estate investors, flippers, or homeowners who need a short-term solution.
Private money lenders often charge higher interest rates, sometimes as high as 12-15% per annum, to compensate for the added risk. This is because they're not bound by the same lending regulations as traditional banks.
They may also require a higher loan-to-value ratio, sometimes up to 80% or more, depending on the property's value and the borrower's creditworthiness. This means the borrower will need to put down a smaller down payment.
Benefits of Working with a Small Private Money Lender
Working with a small private money lender can offer numerous benefits for real estate investors. They provide reliable and competitively priced debt capital, allowing investors to scale their business quickly.
Private money lenders specialize in specific real estate asset classes and loan types, making it easier for investors to find the right financing for their deals. They are comfortable evaluating and funding deals for experienced investors, allowing for quick and reliable closings.
One of the most appealing aspects of private money lending is the speed of closing, which can be as little as a few days to a couple of weeks. This rapid turnaround can make all the difference in real estate.
Private money lenders empower investors to pursue full-time careers in real estate investing by not requiring a W-2 salaried employee with a stable source of employment income. They offer more flexibility and faster approvals compared to traditional banks and lenders.
By working with a private money lender, investors can access a wider range of financing options and potentially even lower interest rates in the future. They can also build relationships with other real estate professionals, such as contractors or property managers, that can help them make the most of their investment.
Private money lenders can provide valuable insights into local market trends and conditions, helping investors make more informed investment decisions. They may also be able to offer alternative financing options for investors who may not meet the strict requirements of traditional lenders.
Types of Small Private Money Lenders

Lend Some Money specializes in hard money commercial loans for non-owner-occupied residential and mixed-use commercial properties. Their technology platform allows for efficient loan processing.
JCAP Private Lending provides loans in 43 states and offers private refinancing, fix-and-flip hard money loans, and investment property loans. They are based in Newport Beach, CA and have a physical office at 1075 Peachtree Street NE, Suite 3650.
Stratton Equities offers NO-DOC loans and fix and flip loans, ideal for investors who prefer a quicker, less invasive loan approval process. Their fix and flip loans provide the necessary capital for investors to purchase, renovate, and sell properties in a short timeframe.
AMUSA Commercial Capital is a Dallas, TX based private money lender that provides funding throughout the country. Their lending focus is mainly on non-bankable commercial real estate loans and Investment 1 to 4 loans.
What Is a Direct?
A direct lender is an institution that funds loans directly or through an affiliate of an institutional capital provider.
Direct lenders differ from mortgage brokers in their business model. Mortgage brokers work with multiple lenders and charge a fee for their services.
Direct lenders, on the other hand, have clearly defined guidelines for funding. This allows them to provide reliable funding to borrowers.
Working with a direct lender can be beneficial for borrowers who value transparency and control over the lending process.
What Is a Bridge?
A bridge loan is a short-term loan that fills the gap between two events, like buying and refinancing a property. It's a type of financing that helps real estate investors cover the costs of a project.
In real estate, bridge loans are often used for renovation projects. They can be used to cover the cost of fixing up a property before selling it or renting it out. For example, a private lender might lend 90% of the purchase price and 100% of the rehab budget.
Bridge loans are typically used for a short period, usually no longer than 18 months. They often come with higher interest rates, typically between 10% and 12%. This is because they're considered riskier than other types of loans.
A bridge loan can be a great option for investors who need to cover the costs of a project but don't have enough cash on hand. They can help investors get started on a project and then refinance once it's complete.
Lima One
Lima One Capital stands out for its comprehensive range of loan programs designed to suit various investment strategies. They offer fix and flip loans, rental loans, and multifamily loans, among others. Their interest rates vary, but their competitive pricing ensures you're getting a good deal for your investment.
Lima One Capital provides flexible loan options to cater to different investment strategies. Whether you're looking to renovate and resell a property or invest in a rental property, Lima One has a loan program that suits your needs. Their loan programs are designed to help investors achieve their investment goals.
Lima One Capital's loan programs are tailored to meet the unique needs of real estate investors. They offer a range of loan options, including interest-only loans, which allow investors to pay only the interest on the loan for a set period of time. This reduces the monthly payments, making it easier to cover the loan while generating rental income.
Lima One Capital's loan programs are designed to help investors generate a profit from their investments. They provide funding for both the purchase and repair components of a property, allowing investors to finance a property's purchase and repairs without having to tap into their own cash reserves. This structure can be especially beneficial for investors who may not have the cash on hand to complete a rehab.
Eligibility and Requirements
Private money lenders are more focused on the deal you're presenting rather than your personal financial history. They want to see that you have a solid plan for the property and that you're likely to repay the loan through a successful real estate project.
You don't necessarily need a perfect credit score to get a loan from private money lenders. A score as low as 600 can still be acceptable, but a higher score might get you more favorable terms.
Private lenders often require a personal guarantee for recourse loans, but some companies offer non-recourse loans for portfolio rental loans with multiple properties.
RCN
RCN Capital is a great option for investors who need quick funding, as they work efficiently to provide loans as swiftly as possible. They offer diverse loan options, including fix and flip, rental, and commercial loans, making them a versatile choice.
RCN Capital understands that time is of the essence in real estate deals, which is why they prioritize quick funding. They have a range of loan options to fit different investment strategies.
RCN Capital's focus on speed and flexibility makes them a popular choice among investors.
Eligibility
To be eligible for a loan from private money lenders, you need to understand that they're more focused on the deal you're presenting rather than your personal financial history.

Your credit score can still play a role, but a score as low as 600 can be acceptable, and it's more about the deal and your ability to execute it than your credit history.
Private money lenders often focus on the asset you're using as collateral, which is known as asset-based lending. This means that if the property you're investing in is deemed valuable and has a good chance of turning a profit, they may be more willing to work with you, even if your credit isn't perfect.
You'll need to demonstrate your commitment to the project through a significant down payment, present a property with strong potential for profit, and meet basic eligibility criteria.
Pros and Cons
Small private money lenders can be a great option for investors, but it's essential to consider the pros and cons before making a decision.
One significant advantage of working with small private money lenders is that they often offer flexible loan terms. This means they're willing to negotiate loan terms that fit your specific needs, unlike traditional mortgage lenders who are bound by strict regulations.
Speed is another benefit of small private money lenders. They can process loans in a matter of days, which can be a game-changer for real estate investors who need to close a deal quickly.
Don't require a strong credit history is another advantage of small private money lenders. Unlike traditional mortgage underwriting, which focuses on borrower income and credit history, small private money lenders extend loans based on collateral, such as a house or building.
However, one potential drawback of small private money lenders is that they may charge higher interest rates compared to traditional lenders. This is because they're taking on more risk by lending to investors who may not have a strong credit history.
Another con of small private money lenders is that they often require a thorough understanding of the property's after-repair value. This means you'll need to have a solid grasp of the property's potential value after renovations are completed.
Here are some key benefits of working with small private money lenders:
- Flexible loan terms
- Speedy funds
- Don't require a strong credit history
By understanding the pros and cons of small private money lenders, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your investment goals.
Finding a Reputable Small Private Money Lender
Finding a reputable small private money lender can be a challenge, but asking for referrals from your network of real estate professionals is a great place to start. They can point you in the direction of trusted lenders who have a proven track record of success.
To further narrow down your options, consider searching online for private money lenders and reading reviews from past borrowers to find one that fits your needs. You can also attend local real estate networking events or meetings to connect with potential lenders in person.
When evaluating potential lenders, make sure to ask the right questions, such as how long they've been lending money for real estate investments, what interest rates and fees they charge, and what their loan terms and repayment process are like.
Find a Reputable
Finding a reputable small private money lender requires some effort, but it's worth it to ensure you get the right financing for your investment. Start by asking for referrals from your network of real estate professionals, such as real estate agents, attorneys, or other investors.
You can also search online for private money lenders and read reviews from past borrowers to find one that fits your needs. Attend local real estate networking events or meetings to connect with potential private money lenders.
When comparing private money lenders, consider the following factors: interest rates, loan terms, experience and reputation, and fees. Make sure to ask the right questions, such as how long they've been lending money, how much they can lend, and what their interest rates and fees are.
Here are some key questions to ask a potential lender:
- How long have you been lending money for real estate investments?
- How much money are you able to lend for my specific investment?
- What is the interest rate and other fees associated with the loan?
- What is the loan term, and can it be extended if necessary?
- How quickly can you fund the loan?
- What is the process for evaluating and approving my loan application?
- What happens if I am unable to make payments or default on the loan?
- Can you provide references from other investors you have worked with in the past?
By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can find a reputable small private money lender that meets your needs and helps you achieve your investment goals.
Global Integrity Finance
Global Integrity Finance is a commercial hard money lender based in McKinney, Texas.
They specialize in hard money loans for commercial properties and also offer bridge loans, fix and flip loans, and construction loans in some cases.
Their funding process is straightforward, as they fund all loans using their own capital.
Global Integrity Finance lends in various types of properties, and they have a physical office location at 321 N Central Expressway, Suite 360.
Financial Assistance Application
If you're in need of financial assistance, applying for a loan from a small private money lender can be a viable option.
To qualify for a hard money loan, you'll typically need to meet certain requirements, such as meeting a minimum credit score set by the lender and making a down payment of at least 20 percent of the loan amount.
You'll also need to provide income statements and have a low debt-to-income (DTI) ratio.
To apply for a hard money loan, you'll need to gather documentation, including identification, income information, and bank statements.
You should also have a clear plan for repaying the loan, as hard money loans have a short repayment term.
To compare lenders, look at the interest rate they charge, as well as the associated fees, and consider calculating the APR to make a more informed decision.
Here's a summary of the steps to follow when applying for a hard money loan:
- Gather documentation: identification, income information, bank statements, and other account statements
- Know how you'll repay the loan
- Compare lenders: look at the interest rate and associated fees
- Contact the lender and apply: submit an application and provide required documents
New York and NYC Related Topics
In New York, you can find various types of loans offered by private lenders, including construction loans, bridging finance, and site acquisition loans.
Some popular private lenders in New York offer a range of loan options, such as investment loans, refinance loans, and home loans.
Hard Money Brooklyn, a private money lender based in Brooklyn, offers loans throughout New York City, including investment property loans and short-term loans.
Their lending guidelines are versatile, allowing for various types of loans, including fix-and-flip loans and private commercial loans.
Here are some loan types offered by private lenders in New York:
- Construction loans
- Bridging finance
- Site Acquisition
- Second mortgage
- Land subdivision
- Receivables finance
- Investment loans
- Refinance
- Home loans
- Development finance
- Cash flow lends
What Is Real Estate?
Real estate is a type of investment where property is used as collateral for loans, such as in the case of private lenders in New York.
Private lenders, either companies or wealthy individuals, provide asset-backed loans to real estate investors, which is a common practice in the industry.
Real estate investments can be lucrative, but they also come with risks, such as market fluctuations and property depreciation.
Private lenders offer a unique opportunity for real estate investors to secure funding without relying on traditional banks, which can be a game-changer in competitive markets like New York City.
New York and NYC Related Topics

In New York, you can find private lenders offering flexible loan options, including low doc loans and construction loans. These lenders can be a good alternative to traditional lending.
If you're looking for a private lender in New York, you can search online or ask for referrals from people in the real estate industry. For example, real estate agents, attorneys, or other investors may be able to recommend a reputable lender.
Some popular types of loans offered by private lenders in New York include construction loans, bridging finance, and second mortgages. You can also find lenders that offer investment loans, residual stock, and refinance options.
When searching for a private lender in New York, it's essential to consider factors like interest rates, loan terms, and fees. You should also ask questions like how long the lender has been in business, how much they can lend, and what their process is for evaluating and approving loan applications.

Here are some ways to find a private lender in New York:
- Search online and read reviews from past borrowers
- Attend real estate networking events to connect with potential lenders
- Ask for referrals from people in the real estate industry
Some notable private lenders in New York include Riverside Park Capital, Hard Money Brooklyn, and New Silver. These lenders offer a range of loan options, including private commercial loans, short-term bridge loans, and fix-and-flip loans.
Example and Case Studies
Small private money lenders can be a great option for investors who need quick access to funds for a project. Yvonne, a house flipper in New York, NY, obtained a hard money loan from Pretty Perfect Funding for $340,000 at a 10% interest rate.
The loan was interest only, with monthly payments of $2,833 for 6 months. This allowed Yvonne to focus on rehabbing the property without worrying about a large mortgage payment.
Laurel, another investor in New York, NY, took a hard money loan from West End Lending Group for $176,000 at a 13% interest rate. The loan had a 3% origination fee and a 18 month term.
The loan-to-value (LTV) ratio for Laurel's loan was 80%, meaning she needed to contribute 20% of the sales price in cash. Laurel's goal was to sell the property for $297,000.
By selling the property for $297,000, Laurel was able to make a total profit of $37,400. This profit did not include taxes or renovation costs, but it shows the potential for success with a well-planned project and the right financing.
List of Small Private Money Lenders
Lend Some Money is a national private lender that makes hard money commercial loans for the refinance or purchase of non-owner-occupied residential and mixed-use commercial properties. Its industry-leading technology platform allows it to provide real estate investors and brokers with quick access to capital.
Some small private money lenders specialize in specific types of properties, such as non-owner-occupied residential and mixed-use commercial properties.
Lend Some Money's technology platform enables it to provide real estate investors and brokers with quick access to capital.
Private money lenders often offer hard money commercial loans, which are typically used for the refinance or purchase of non-owner-occupied properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do private money lenders charge?
Private money lenders typically charge interest rates between 15% to 20%. Higher rates than licensed lenders, but subject to state usury laws that limit excessive charges.
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