Loading
Loading
El Centro sits in Imperial County, one of California's most affordable real estate markets. That low entry point makes it attractive for fix-and-flip and buy-and-hold investors.
Hard money loans are asset-based. The lender cares about the property's value, not your tax returns. That speed and flexibility is exactly what investors need here.
9% – 13%
Typical Rate Range
7 – 14 Days
Avg. Closing Time
65% – 75%
Max LTV
600+
Min Credit Score
6 – 24 Months
Loan Term
2 – 4 Points
Origination Fees
Hard Money Loans in El Centro
Hard money lenders focus on loan-to-value (LTV) — what the property is worth versus what you're borrowing. Most lenders cap at 65-75% LTV on El Centro properties.
Credit score still matters, but it's not the main event. Most hard money lenders want to see 600+, a clear exit strategy, and some skin in the game from you.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect hard money loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in El Centro.
El Centro sits in Imperial County, one of California's most affordable real estate markets. That low entry point makes it attractive for fix-and-flip and buy-and-hold investors.
Hard money loans are asset-based. The lender cares about the property's value, not your tax returns. That speed and flexibility is exactly what investors need here.
Hard money lenders focus on loan-to-value (LTV) — what the property is worth versus what you're borrowing. Most lenders cap at 65-75% LTV on El Centro properties.
Hard money lenders are private — not banks. Rates and terms vary wildly. One lender might charge 10%, another 13%. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
At SRK CAPITAL, we work with 200+ wholesale lenders including hard money and private capital sources. We find the one whose terms actually fit your deal.
The biggest mistake investors make with hard money is not having a clear exit. Lenders in El Centro want to know if you're selling or refinancing — and when.
Origination fees (called points) usually run 2-4% on hard money deals. Budget for that upfront cost. It's not like a conventional loan where fees are smaller.
DSCR loans are longer-term and cheaper, but they take 3-4 weeks to close. Hard money closes in days. For a competitive deal in El Centro, speed often wins.
Bridge loans are similar but usually require stronger borrower profiles. Hard money is more flexible on credit and income — the property does the heavy lifting.
El Centro is the county seat of Imperial County. It has a strong rental demand driven by agricultural workers, border commerce, and military proximity to NAF El Centro.
Lower property prices mean smaller loan amounts. Hard money minimums can be an issue — some lenders won't go below $75K. Know that before you submit.
Most hard money loans close in 7-14 days. That speed depends on clean title and a ready appraisal or property valuation.
Yes, but hard money is short-term. Most investors refinance into a DSCR loan after stabilizing the property.
Most want 600 or higher. Some go lower if the deal has strong equity and a clear exit plan.
Some lenders have minimums of $75K or higher. We know which lenders will do smaller deals in Imperial County.
Rates generally run 9-13% depending on LTV, credit, and property type. Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions.
Most lenders require a BPO or full appraisal. They need to verify the property value before they fund.