In the world of real estate, every successful deal begins with a conversation. The BiggerPockets BPCON2023 event was a dedicated platform for these essential conversations – a place where lenders and borrowers converged to establish connections and discuss real estate deals.

Attending a real estate investor trade show from a lender’s perspective can be an exciting and informative experience. It’s an opportunity to connect with potential borrowers, gain insights into the market, and build valuable relationships. In this event recap, we’ll share our experience attending the BiggerPockets BPCON2023 tradeshow in Orlando and highlight some key takeaways.

1. Networking Opportunities:

Real estate events are a melting pot of industry professionals, from seasoned investors to those just starting their journey. The team at BiggerPockets was expecting 2000+ real estate investors for the Orlando event held at the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes and our team had great conversations with attendees. The crowd was diverse – from new investors to those with large portfolios and years of experience under their belt. Locations also varied, including people from as far away as Hawaii and Alaska to those local to the Orlando area. These interactions opened doors to potential business partnerships and there are already deals being submitted as a result.

2. Learning from Pros:

One of the most valuable aspects of attending events for borrowers is the opportunity to learn from industry experts. There were numerous panel discussions, workshops, and keynote presentations on topics like short term rentals, finding deals in an uncertain market, investment strategies, and house flipping. Speakers included Tarek El Moussa and Heather Rae El Moussa among others.

Is your goal to flip properties? See our Top Flip Tips download here (it’s free). 

On the lending side, the LYNK team gained valuable market intelligence into what potential borrowers are looking for in a lender.

Common attendee questions included:

• Points and how they work on a loan
• Experience needed to secure the best terms
• Rates and leverage on New Construction, Fix & Flip and Rental loans
• How many units can be funded on a New Construction project

Meeting new borrowers at the BPCON2023 show provided an invaluable opportunity to bridge the gap between lender and borrower. It’s a chance to not only showcase the LYNK Capital lending programs but also to understand the unique needs and goals of potential clients. By explaining what we do as a lender and demonstrating our commitment to providing tailored financial solutions, we can help borrowers achieve their property investment goals.

3. Showcasing LYNK Capital Loan Programs:

In the rapidly changing real estate industry, staying ahead requires an understanding of market trends and lending options. Through conversations with both experienced investors and real estate newbies in search of their first deal, our team was able to walk borrowers through how the lending process works at LYNK Capital.  From our easy process, to rates, terms, and leverage, we were able to connect with interested borrowers who need capital to fund their projects now.

LYNK Capital Loan Programs:

• New Construction
• Fix & Flip
• Rental
• Bridge

Conclusion:

Attending a real estate investor event from a lender’s perspective can be a great experience. It offers a unique opportunity to network, learn from industry experts, showcase your services, conduct market research, gather feedback, build trust, and stay competitive in the real estate lending market.

Overall, lending in the real estate industry is not just about transactions; it’s about fostering relationships and partnerships that pave the way for mutual growth.

Next:

Learn more about LYNK Capital’s loan programs (including current rates and terms)

Learn more about BPCON2023

To reach our team, call (407) 476-2500 or contact us by email at [email protected].

Investing in real estate is widely regarded as an effective strategy for building personal wealth. As an increasing number of individuals seek financial security through real estate projects, accessing the right construction loan becomes crucial. Fortunately, numerous construction loan options exist beyond traditional bank loans, which often impose strict lending requirements. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of various loan options available for real estate investments, assisting readers in selecting the most suitable construction loan for their needs.

Bank Lending vs. Private Lending

Construction projects require financing, which can be obtained through either banks or private lenders. Banks rely on depositors or federal government funds for their financing, while private lenders secure funds from investors, banks, or both. Unlike traditional banks bound by regulations that dictate borrower profiles and eligible business types, private lenders offer greater flexibility. They operate within the framework of state and federal laws but can adapt to a broader range of customer profiles and loan types. Choosing a private construction loan provider can offer advantages such as a simplified approval process, faster access to funds, greater flexibility, and more customizable loan options tailored to individual needs.

Bridge Loans

A bridge loan is a short-term loan to provide financing during a transitionary period, such as when a builder or flipper has recently completed a project and is awaiting the property to sell, or when a new rental property is in need of seasoning before being eligible for long-term financing.

Bridge loans are among the most common asset-based loans offered by private lenders. Offering short-term financing based on the current value of a property, bridge loans provide the funding needed until more permanent financing is secured or until existing obligations are removed (i.e., a property is sold).

Receiving the bridge loans allows the borrower to cover upcoming expenses in between paying off past projects and wrapping up their loose ends.

Construction Loans

Ground-up construction loans, including those provided by LYNK Capital, cater specifically to investors involved in new construction projects. Offering flexibility and swift funding, private construction loans differ from traditional bank loans by focusing less on debt-to-income ratios and tax returns. Instead, they consider the property’s value and the borrower’s construction experience. It’s important to note that private construction loans, including those from LYNK Capital, are generally not available for owner-occupied properties. Investors and developers seeking a rapid funding option and a streamlined process free from traditional bank formalities can find private construction loans appealing.

Construction-to-Permanent Loans

Construction-to-permanent loans initially function as construction loans but subsequently convert into conventional mortgages once the project is complete. These loans are offered by banks as well as specialized lenders and feature short-term financing for the construction phase, followed by a traditional mortgage such as a fixed-rate 30-year loan. To qualify for construction-to-permanent loans, borrowers must meet all credit and financing requirements. This loan type primarily targets builders planning to reside in the property after completion, as it is not suitable for house flippers or investors intending to sell the property immediately.

Asset-Based Short-Term Lending

Asset-based short-term loans serve as an alternative for borrowers who struggle to secure other forms of financing. These loans typically require collateral, such as property or other assets, and may feature higher interest rates. However, they often provide more flexibility in terms and underwriting requirements, allowing negotiation between the borrower and lender. Similar to private construction loans, asset-based loans are typically not suitable for funding owner-occupied construction properties.

Loans From a Private Investor

Securing a construction loan through a private investor presents an ideal solution, as it offers flexibility in negotiating loan terms. However, this option requires establishing a relationship with an investor who has available funds and an interest in investing in the construction project. Personal connections or contacts with potential investors are essential to pursue this avenue successfully.

Choose LYNK Capital for Your Construction Loan

LYNK Capital provides comprehensive construction loan options to support your real estate ventures. Whether you’re embarking on a small or large-scale project, our experienced team will help you navigate the various loan options available.

LYNK Capital has funded over $750 million of loans like yours. As a direct lender specializing in construction loans for builders, we’ll give you confidence that you’ve found a strong partner to help you meet your real estate investment goals.

Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to assisting you throughout the loan process, providing tailored solutions that align with your specific requirements. By leveraging our expertise and extensive network, we can help you secure the funding you need to turn your construction project into a reality.

To reach our team, call (407) 476-2500 or contact us by email at [email protected].

Debt can sometimes be an obstacle, but it can also be a tool for increasing income, especially in the world of real estate. For those looking to invest in properties, DSCR loans can be a game-changer. But what exactly are they, and how can you make the most of them? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about leveraging DSCR loans for your real estate investment.

What is DSCR?

DSCR stands for “debt service coverage ratio.” It’s a calculation used by lenders to gauge if you’ll have enough money to pay for a loan after debt payments are made. In real estate finance, DSCR is the primary measure to determine if a property will be able to sustain its debt based on cash flow. Unlike in homeownership, where it’s called the debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, DSCR for investment properties focuses on the property’s income rather than your personal income.

Calculating DSCR is quite simple. Just take the property’s rental income (or net operating income) and divide it by the total of principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and association fees (often referred to as PITIA).

DSCR CALCULATION EXAMPLE
Home Value $350,000
20% Down Payment $70,000
Mortgage (at 7.25% Interest) $280,000

Monthly Expenses:
Loan Payment (Principal & Interest) $1,910
Taxes $350
Insurance $150
HOA Fees $90
PITIA $2,500

Monthly Rent: $3,000
$3,000 / $2,500 = 1.2 DSCR

How do DSCR loans help fund rental properties?

DSCR loans play a vital role in financing rental properties. Lenders want to ensure that the rental income will cover all the property expenses, including the mortgage payments. This is where DSCR comes into play. By demonstrating that the rental income can effectively cover all costs like taxes, upkeep, and mortgage, you increase your chances of loan approval.

Why is DSCR important for investors?

DSCR holds significant importance for two reasons. Firstly, it determines whether you can secure the loan or not. Lenders rely on the DSCR to gauge your ability to handle the financial obligations. Secondly, DSCR helps you understand the level of debt you can comfortably take on. It’s essential to have a DSCR that allows some breathing room. This way, even if the rental income fluctuates slightly, you can still make your mortgage payments on time. This becomes crucial considering the unpredictable nature of real estate markets.

How is DSCR different from DTI-based loans?

DTI-based loans are typically for regular homeownership, where you borrow in your own name. Lenders that offer DTI loans focus on your personal debt-to-income ratio and require a lot of personal documentation. However, with DSCR loans, you can close them in the name of a company, such as an LLC. Lenders primarily evaluate the property’s income from leases and don’t scrutinize your personal DTI or demand extensive paperwork. Additionally, DSCR loans do not appear on your credit report or impact your personal DTI, providing more flexibility.

By understanding DSCR and its implications, real estate investors can effectively utilize DSCR loans to expand their investment portfolios and achieve success in the competitive real estate market.

What should investors look for in a DSCR loan provider?

When choosing a lender for DSCR loans or other non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) loans, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, experience matters. You’ll want to work with a lender who specializes in these types of loans and understands the unique requirements of investment properties. They should have a dedicated team with in-depth knowledge of the lending process for non-QM loans.

Flexibility is another crucial aspect. Look for a lender that offers tailored DSCR loans for various investment property scenarios, such as purchases, rate-term refinances, or cash-out refinances. This flexibility ensures that the loan aligns with your specific needs and objectives.

Access to the lender and their level of attention are also important considerations. You want a lender who is responsive and accessible throughout the loan process. Being able to connect with decision-makers and having a consistent point of contact can make a significant difference in securing the funds you need in a timely manner.

For experienced real estate investors evaluating rental projects for their portfolios, LYNK Capital offers a range of customizable financing products to suit individual investment objectives. By leveraging extensive expertise and dedicated in-house team, LYNK Capital ensures a swift and efficient borrowing process. Contact LYNK Capital today to explore how their tailored DSCR loans and other Non-QM loan options can help you achieve your investment goals.

In conclusion, while DSCR loans may initially seem complex, they offer a powerful tool for real estate investors to finance rental properties. Understanding the fundamentals of DSCR and choosing the right lender with experience, flexibility, and attentive service can greatly enhance your investment journey. By leveraging DSCR loans effectively, you can seize opportunities, overcome financial hurdles, and achieve success in building a profitable real estate portfolio.

In ground up construction and renovation projects there lies a component that can make or break the project: the budget. If you overspend on fixtures, flooring and other design details, you risk making less profit, or worse, losing money. When financing these projects, it’s imperative to have a solid comprehension of the use of funding draws, including successfully submitting draw requests to keep the construction or renovation work on track and on budget. In this article, we’ll walk you through what a draw request is and how they work in real estate projects.

What are Draw Requests?

Draw requests are formal procedures used to access funds from a construction loan as the building work progresses. Instead of disbursing the entire loan amount immediately upon approval, funds are released in stages that correspond to the completion of specific construction milestones decided in your construction budget prior to loan approval.

The borrower or their contractor submits draw requests to the lender, who reviews the request and conducts a property inspection to verify the completion of the work before releasing the corresponding funds. This system ensures accessibility of funds, tracks construction progress, ensures proper fund usage, and facilitates the early detection of any project delays

Mechanism of Draw Requests

Before construction begins, the borrower and contractor present a draw schedule to the lender. This schedule includes an estimate of the work to be performed and the associated costs, serving as the foundation for subsequent draw requests.

Once a portion of the work is completed, the borrower or contractor submits a draw request to the lender, providing details of the completed work and corresponding costs. The lender inspects the property and releases the funds if the work is satisfactory and aligns with the original draw schedule.

Importance of Adhering to the Original Budget

Adhering to the original budget is crucial for managing a construction project, whether it involves building a new home or executing a fix-and-flip. This adherence ensures proper fund allocation and maintains the project’s trajectory, avoiding unnecessary delays or stalls.

Investors who submit draw requests exceeding the original budget risk the need for lender approval or potentially re-underwriting the loan, both of which can cause significant delays. Therefore, diligent budget management and meticulous expense tracking are paramount.

Effective Budget Management for Real Estate Investors

• Detailed Budget Plan: Begin with a comprehensive budget plan that outlines all expected costs, including materials, labor, permits, inspections, and contingency expenses. This plan forms the basis of your construction loan and subsequent draw requests.
• Regular Budget Reviews: Monitor your budget regularly, comparing actual costs against projected expenses. This ongoing review helps identify areas of overspending and allows for necessary adjustments.
• Change Order Management: Changes to the original construction plan are common. However, all change orders should be thoroughly reviewed for their impact on the budget. Significant changes need to be promptly communicated to the lender.
• Contingency Fund: Unforeseen costs are typical in construction projects. Including a contingency fund in your budget (typically 10-20% of total costs) provides a financial cushion for these unexpected expenses.
  • Expense Tracking Software: Make use of expense tracking software to monitor and categorize expenses. This software can synchronize with bank accounts and credit cards, providing real-time updates and instant overviews of spending.
  • Document Management: Keep all receipts, invoices, contracts, and change orders organized and easily accessible. Digital document management solutions can be useful for this purpose.
  • Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of your expenses to ensure alignment with the budget. Investigate any discrepancies or unexpected costs.
  • Professional Assistance: Consider hiring a construction accountant or financial advisor specializing in real estate to provide expert guidance on budget management and expense tracking.

By adhering to the budget and implementing robust expense tracking systems, real estate investors can minimize financial risks, streamline the draw request process, and ensure successful and profitable completion of their construction projects.

Draw Frequency

Construction loans typically allow for multiple draws, usually ranging from three to six, depending on the percentage of work completed. The exact number of draws required should be determined based on the construction budget and timeline. It’s important to note that additional draws may incur processing and inspection fees, as well as increased loan balance interest charges.

Managing Construction Budget Modifications

Any changes to the construction budget should be promptly communicated to the lender to ensure project feasibility and loan suitability. This transparency helps prevent complications or misunderstandings that could derail the project. Significant changes may include unforeseen expenses, scope alterations, or increased labor costs, which may require lender approval before proceeding.

Procedure for Requesting Changes

If changes to the construction budget are necessary, the lender should be notified promptly. Detailed explanations of the changes and an updated cost estimate are required, and additional documentation, such as revised plans or contractor contracts, may also be necessary. The lender will then evaluate the changes and, in some cases, may need to re-underwrite the loan.

Property Inspection Process

Upon submission of a draw request, the lender carries out a property inspection to verify the completion and quality of the work. This process involves an independent inspector visiting the site and comparing the completed work to the original plans and budget. The inspector checks for any issues or discrepancies and sends a report back to the lender.

Draw Request Processing Time

Typically, processing and payment of draw requests take 3-5 business days, assuming no issues arise. To avoid problems, it’s important to follow the original budget, submit all necessary documentation, and promptly inform the lender of any changes or issues. Scheduling property inspections in a timely manner can also prevent processing delays. Unresolved issues or discrepancies may prolong the processing and payment of your draw request.

Mastering Draw Requests with LYNK Capital

Understanding the draw request process is fundamental when securing a construction loan. At LYNK Capital, we specialize in construction and renovation loans and take care to guide our borrowers through the intricacies of draw requests. Our expertise ensures that you receive the necessary funds when needed, minimizing errors and maximizing efficiency.

With our professional assistance, you can smoothly navigate the draw request process, allowing you to focus more on the construction at hand.

Contact us today for more information about how we can support you in achieving your real estate investment goals, whether they involve building a new property or undertaking a renovation project.