Hard money loans and bridge loans are similar in that both can be quick to close. Both may be needed for a short period of time. In addition both undergo limited or less severe underwriting processes. However, while the bridge loan investor requires a definite exit strategy, the hard money source may not. Moreover, bridge loans frequently have a loan to value ratio of 70-95%, whereas hard money loans will not exceed 50% LTV.

Hard money loans also are generally more expensive. Unlike bridge loans, which focus on exit strategy, hard money investors emphasize collateral, making certain enough exists to collect the debt in the event of default.

Because these two types of loans have similarities, borrowers frequently misjudge which is best for them. More than three-fourths of those who say they want a bridge loan qualify only for a hard money loan because, for example, the borrower has less-than-average credit, a modest financial statement, too little experience in commercial real estate, or no defined exit strategy.

The financing experts at Remington can quickly sort out your situation and quickly align you with the appropriate type of financing and related investor.