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San Francisco moves fast. Deals that sit get picked apart — hard money lets investors close before the competition wakes up.
This is an asset-based loan. The property secures the debt, not your tax returns. That matters in a market full of self-employed buyers and complex income.
5–10 Business Days
Typical Close Time
Up to 65–75% ARV
Max LTV (ARV-Based)
Flexible (~580+)
Min Credit Score
6–24 Months
Loan Term
Usually None
Income Docs Required
Hard Money Loans in San Francisco
Lenders underwrite the property first. They want to know the after-repair value (ARV) — what the property is worth once work is done.
Most hard money lenders want 25–35% equity in the deal. Credit still matters, but a 580 can get approved where conventional lenders would walk.
Local decision guide
Use this guide to connect hard money loans eligibility, lender expectations, and local market factors before comparing payment options in San Francisco.
San Francisco moves fast. Deals that sit get picked apart — hard money lets investors close before the competition wakes up.
This is an asset-based loan. The property secures the debt, not your tax returns. That matters in a market full of self-employed buyers and complex income.
Lenders underwrite the property first. They want to know the after-repair value (ARV) — what the property is worth once work is done.
Hard money lenders are not banks. Most are private funds or individual investors. Rates vary significantly — shop hard or you'll overpay.
At SRK CAPITAL, we work with 200+ wholesale lenders, including private hard money funds active in the Bay Area. We find the rate and terms that fit your deal.
The biggest mistake I see: investors treat hard money like a long-term plan. It isn't. You need an exit — a refinance or a sale — before the term ends.
Fix-and-flip, BRRRR strategy, or a bridge to conventional financing — hard money works when the exit is clear from day one.
Bridge loans are close cousins — both are short-term. But bridge loans often require stronger credit and a stabilized property.
DSCR loans are better for stabilized rentals with cash flow. Hard money wins when the property needs work or speed is everything.
San Francisco properties are expensive. That means larger loan amounts — and hard money lenders here underwrite to higher ARVs than most of California.
SF permitting can extend timelines on renovation projects. Factor that into your draw schedule and loan term negotiations before you commit.
Most hard money loans close in 5–10 business days. Speed depends on how quickly title and property inspection can be completed.
Most lenders go up to 65–75% of ARV. Higher-value SF properties may see tighter LTV limits depending on the lender.
Yes. Hard money lenders commonly fund 2–4 unit and larger multifamily deals. The property's value and your exit strategy drive approval.
They do, but it's not the primary factor. A solid deal with strong equity can close even with a below-average credit score.
You'll need to negotiate an extension with your lender — usually for a fee. Plan for delays before you close, not after.
Rates vary by borrower profile and market conditions. Hard money rates run higher than conventional — the speed and flexibility is what you're paying for.