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San Marcos is seeing steady investor interest as San Diego County added more low-income rental units last year than in nearly 40 years. Hard money lenders serve buyers who need speed over traditional bank timelines.
For investors, hard money fills the gap when conventional financing won't work. Bridge loans, fix-and-flip projects, and construction deals close in weeks instead of months.
8% to 12%
Typical Rate Range
20% to 30%
Down Payment
7 to 14 days
Closing Timeline
$102,285
County Median Income
Hard Money Loans in San Marcos
Hard money lenders focus on the property, not your credit score. Most require 20% to 30% down and a solid exit strategy—refinance, sale, or cash-out.
San Diego County's median household income of $102,285 supports purchases in the $400,000 to $600,000 range with conventional financing. Hard money borrowers typically have equity or a clear value-add plan.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect hard money loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in San Marcos.
San Marcos is seeing steady investor interest as San Diego County added more low-income rental units last year than in nearly 40 years. Hard money lenders serve buyers who need speed over traditional bank timelines.
For investors, hard money fills the gap when conventional financing won't work. Bridge loans, fix-and-flip projects, and construction deals close in weeks instead of months.
Hard money lenders focus on the property, not your credit score. Most require 20% to 30% down and a solid exit strategy—refinance, sale, or cash-out.
Hard money lenders in California operate outside traditional banking. They price based on loan-to-value, property condition, and exit strategy rather than FICO scores.
Rates run 8% to 12% depending on risk and loan structure. Points and fees are higher than conventional but the speed and flexibility offset the cost for the right deal.
Hard money makes sense in San Marcos for investors buying distressed properties or needing a bridge while selling another home. The county's record low-income housing construction signals growing investor activity.
Hard money doesn't fit owner-occupants or buyers with stable income and good credit. Conventional financing will always be cheaper and easier for primary residence purchases.
Conventional loans offer lower rates and longer terms but require 30+ days and strict credit standards. Hard money closes in two weeks with flexible underwriting—you trade rate for speed.
FHA loans work for owner-occupants with 3.5% down but carry lifetime mortgage insurance. Hard money is for investors who need capital fast and plan to refinance or sell within 1 to 3 years.
San Diego County just completed its biggest year of low-income housing construction, signaling strong rental demand. Investors buying rental properties in San Marcos benefit from this market momentum.
The new Galū Cafe sister location opening in City Heights this fall shows dining and retail growth across the region. Neighborhood improvements like this support property appreciation and rental rates.
Hard money lenders don't rely on credit scores. They focus on the property value and your exit strategy. Most require proof of funds and a solid plan to refinance or sell.
Hard money typically closes in 7 to 14 days. Some lenders can fund in as little as 5 days with complete documentation. Speed is the main advantage over conventional financing.
Most hard money lenders require 20% to 30% down. The exact amount depends on the property condition and loan-to-value ratio. A strong exit strategy can sometimes lower the down payment requirement.
No. Hard money is designed for investors and fix-and-flip projects, not primary residences. Owner-occupants should use conventional or FHA loans for much lower rates and longer terms.
Your exit strategy must be solid before closing. Most hard money loans are 12 to 24 months. If refinancing fails, you'll need to sell the property or arrange another funding source.