Hard money loans move fast—but only if you’re prepared. Whether you’re flipping a property, bridging financing, or funding a quick-close investment, coming to the table with the right documents can make or break your deal.

That’s why we created this Hard Money Loan Checklist—to help you gather everything you need upfront so you can close faster, easier, and with less back-and-forth.

Use this as your go-to prep list before applying with Lending Bee (or any private lender).

What Lenders Look For

Hard money loans are all about speed and asset value. That means:

  • The property is the star of the show
  • The borrower’s experience and exit strategy matter
  • Documentation needs to be clear and ready to go

If you’re prepared, you can get approved in 24–48 hours. If not? Delays and missed deals.

Your Hard Money Loan Application Checklist

Here’s what to have ready:

1. Property Details

  • Full property address
  • Photos (interior + exterior)
  • Estimated current value (and supporting comps if available)
  • After-repair value (ARV) if doing a flip or rehab
  • Description of property condition

2. Purchase Contract or Term Sheet

  • Signed purchase agreement (if under contract)
  • LOI or term sheet (if applicable)
  • Proof of earnest money deposit

3. Rehab Budget (if applicable)

  • Line-item scope of work
  • Contractor bids or estimates
  • Timeline for repairs or renovations

4. Borrower Info

  • Full name and contact details
  • LLC or entity info (if applicable)
  • Driver’s license or passport copy
  • Real estate experience or portfolio (if you have it)

5. Financial Docs

  • Recent bank statements (proof of funds for down payment + reserves)
  • Exit strategy plan (sell, refi, etc.)
  • Existing mortgage info (if refinancing)

6. Insurance & Title

  • Title contact or attorney info (if available)
  • Insurance agent contact (you’ll need a binder before closing)

7. Extras That Speed Things Up

  • Appraisal or BPO (if you already have one)
  • Environmental or structural reports (for commercial deals)
  • Rent roll (for income properties)
  • Business plan (if it’s a development or multifamily deal)

Pro Tips to Get Ahead

  • Organize everything into one folder (Dropbox or Google Drive works great)
  • Label your files clearly (“123Main_Contract.pdf” beats “Scan0347.jpg”)
  • Respond quickly to lender questions (every hour counts)
  • Ask questions early—don’t wait until closing to clarify the structure

Why It Matters

When you’re chasing deals in a competitive market, speed is everything. Investors who show up prepared are the ones who get funded—while others are left watching deals slip away.

This checklist doesn’t just help you close faster. It builds credibility with lenders and shows that you’re a serious borrower who’s ready to roll.

And at Lending Bee, we’re all about working with pros who come prepared.

Preparation = Power

The faster you can move, the more deals you can close. And that starts with being ready. Use this checklist to organize your docs, shorten approval time, and impress your lender.

Ready to apply? Contact Lending Bee today—and let’s get your next deal funded fast.