Do You Have the Tools & Knowledge to be a Private Lender?
Banks continue to constrain lending, and as a result, private lending is taking a more prominent role in the marketplace today. Many individuals are drawn to private lending by the rates of return they receive, especially when CD rates are so low. Private lenders feel they are better off getting the interest straight from the public by acting as a mini-bank.
However, many investors are unaware of the risks associated with this type of investment. As with all investments, to mitigate risk, it is important to be educated in the investment of choice because no investment is without risk.
The following is a checklist for private lending and an understanding of the points listed is mandatory for anyone considering this investment.
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Title Insurance
Require title insurance on the property – make sure you know who owns it and what is already owed!
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Professional Paperwork
Use professional paperwork – promissory note, mortgage/deed of trust, Assignments of Rents, Confession of Judgment, Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure, Guaranty Agreement, etc.
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Insurance
Verify with the insurance company that you are insured in case of a property or liability loss.
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Value
Know the value of the security and the market conditions – evaluate at least annually.
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Exit Strategy
Know your borrower’s exit strategy – sell, re-finance, etc.
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Plan
Know what you will do if the borrower dies or walks away.
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Key Man
Do you have “key man” insurance on the borrower?
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Financial Health
Understand the financial health of the borrower – do you have any indicators that show the deal going bad?
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Foreclosing
Plan on foreclosing – know the cost, time, and who will do the actual foreclosure.
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Draw Schedule
Use a draw schedule if improvement money is in the deal.
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Taxes
Verify taxes are paid annually; unpaid taxes can wipe-out the loan.
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Verify
Verify that any association fees, senior liens, etc. are paid annually.
Interest rate and returns don’t mean a thing if you lose your money!
There are many other factors that should be considered when considering becoming a private lender. If you want more education on the subject of private lending, Cama Academy offers frequent classes on the subject. Please visit our Events Calendar to register for an upcoming workshop.
Of course, it is always a good idea to seek professional advice on any investment and we recommend that you review any investment with your professional advisor.