The Hard Truth About Hard Money Loans: Closing Times Explained
In the bustling world of real estate investment, timing is everything. When you find the perfect property at a favorable price, securing financing quickly becomes a critical concern. This is where hard money lenders can play a crucial role. However, there’s often a misunderstanding about how quickly a hard money lender can close a loan. Many borrowers think it’s as simple as filling out an application and getting a check, but the reality is a bit more complex.
THE ROLE OF THIRD PARTIES IN LOAN CLOSURES
Despite popular belief, the timeframe for closing a loan is not solely dictated by the lender. While it’s true that hard money lenders often operate faster than traditional banks, they are not the only players involved in the process. Multiple third-party entities also contribute to the speed of loan closure.
For instance, the title company must provide title work, insurance companies need to deliver the necessary insurance documentation, and the borrower is required to provide an assortment of required documents. These may include their ID, scope of work, purchase contract, entity documents, and others.
The timeline heavily depends on how quickly these external parties can supply the needed information. So, even though the hard money lender is ready and willing to proceed, they often find themselves waiting for these essential documents.
THE TRUTH BEHIND "24-48 HOUR" CLAIMS
It’s not uncommon to see hard money lenders advertising that they can close loans within 24-48 hours. While this sounds appealing, it’s crucial to understand what this claim truly means. It does not imply that they can complete the entire loan process within this timeframe. Rather, it means that they can finalize the loan within 24-48 hours of receiving all required documents.
Every hard money lender could theoretically close a loan that quickly if they have a complete file. However, the process of collecting, verifying, and processing all necessary documents is what typically takes time. So, while it’s possible in theory, in practice, the loan closing process often extends beyond a 48-hour window.
THE BOTTOM LINE
When it comes to securing a hard money loan, being proactive and efficient in gathering all necessary documentation is key. The sooner the lender receives all required documents, the sooner they can move forward with closing the loan.
Remember, while hard money lenders play a significant role in financing real estate investments quickly, they do not operate in a vacuum. It’s a team effort involving multiple entities. Understanding the involvement of these third parties will give you a realistic expectation of how quickly you can receive your funds.
So, next time you see a hard money lender advertising lightning-fast closures, know that the clock starts ticking once they have a complete file in their hands. Be ready to do your part to expedite the process and move your investment dreams closer to reality.
