How to Qualify for a Hard Money Loan in Florida
A step-by-step path to hard money approval for Florida investors: size the deal, line up your equity and exit, and close in days. Licensed FL mortgage broker NMLS# 1859012.
By Onias Derilus, Mortgage Capital · NMLS# 1859012 · Last Updated: June 2026
Qualifying for hard money is fast because the property does the heavy lifting. You confirm the deal pencils out, bring your equity, and show a clear way to repay. Here is the path from offer to funding, usually measured in days rather than weeks.
Size the Deal and the Asset
Start with the property value. For a purchase, that is the price; for a renovation, the lender uses the after-repair value. Your maximum loan is a percentage of that figure, typically 65 to 75%.
Subtract the loan from your total project cost to find the equity you need to bring. Build in a buffer for points, interest, and overruns so the deal still works if timing slips.
Line Up Equity and Your Exit
Have your down payment and reserves ready, and be clear on how you will repay the balloon. Most investors exit by selling the finished property or refinancing into longer-term financing such as a DSCR loan.
A credible, documented exit is the single biggest factor in approval. Spell out your timeline, your budget, and your backup plan before you apply.
Submit and Fund Fast
Because there are no income documents to verify, hard money files move quickly. The lender orders a valuation, confirms your equity and exit, and funds, often within days.
Once you close, the clock starts on your short term. Stay on budget, hit your timeline, and plan your refinance early. Reach out to size your deal or compare a hard money plan against a DSCR loan.
Hard Money Loan How to Qualify — FAQ
Confirm the property value supports the loan, bring 25 to 35% equity or down payment, hold reserves for interest and costs, and document a clear exit through sale or refinance. No personal income documents are required.
Hard money loans often close within days because there are no income documents to verify. Once the lender confirms the property value, your equity, and your exit plan, funding can happen far faster than a conventional close.
A credible, documented exit plan is the biggest factor. The lender needs to see how you will repay the balloon, whether by selling the finished property or refinancing into longer-term financing such as a DSCR loan.
Start Your Hard Money Loan
Fast approvals · Asset-based · Licensed FL mortgage broker NMLS# 1859012
Rates are illustrative only. APR and payments vary by credit score, loan amount, and market conditions. Subject to credit approval. Not a commitment to lend. NMLS# 1859012. Equal Housing Lender.