Tag Archive for: real estate investing

Have you used the Loan Cost Optimizer?

Categories: ,

Have you used the loan cost optimizer and do you know what it is? This is an excellent tool that will help you to find the best loan option for your investment needs. While taking out a loan will cost you money, it is important however that you see the impact it has on your life. This is the perfect tool to have in your real estate investment toolbox! 

Loans can be complicated! 

Loans are complicated, however there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping around. These include the interest rates, loan terms, as well as fees. The loan cost optimizer will not only help you keep things organized, but it will also allow you to compare everything side by side! 

Download this amazing tool for free today!

The loan cost optimizer can help you find the best loan for your deal. In fact, by understanding as well as comparing the total costs, you will be able to make smarter investment decisions. 

Contact Us Today! 

How can you maximize your profits as a real estate investor? Contact us today to find out more!

Free Tools For You! 

We also have free tools available! Download the Loan Cost Optimizer to see which loan is best for your investment property.

Learn more!

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more about real estate investing and how you can maximize your profits! 

by

5 Roadblocks for Investors

Categories:

Did you know that there are 5 major roadblocks for real estate investors? By identifying these roadblocks, investors can not only ease their frustration, but they can prevent a finance wall by creating cash flow. Let’s take a brief look at all 5 today!

First, Cash Flow:

Cash flow can greatly affect your success as an investor! If you property’s expenses outweigh your profits, then that’s going to hurt you and your business. The best way to avoid this is to make a plan and know your numbers upfront! 

Second, Escrow:

Escrow is a portion of the loan a lending company puts aside for repairs to the property. The only way to access these funds is to submit receipts, photos, and other proof to your lender that the repairs are underway. 

Third, Too Many Projects:

From multiple property costs to paying contractors, investors can get too big too fast. It is important to “err on the side of caution” to prevent the “finance crunch” that often occurs. So, slow down, be realistic, and limit your losses. 

Fourth, Rentals:

It is critical that you learn to navigate rental cash flow. Remember, the deal needs to be a positive investment, not a negative one! Consider all of the costs, including rents, taxes, and insurance.

Finally, Personal Credit Usage:

Be careful not to misuse personal credit cards in order to cushion purchases or expenses. Consider a business credit card to keep business expenses separate! 

Contact Us Today! 

How can you maximize your profits as a real estate investor? Contact us today to find out more!

Free Tools For You! 

We also have free tools available! Download the Quick Deal Analyzer to see if your potential rental property is going to be a good investment!

Learn more!

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more about real estate investing and how you can maximize your profits! 

by

What Is a DSCR Loan, and Why Does It Matter for Investors?

Categories: ,

If you’re a real estate investor, you may have heard about a DSCR loan. What is a DSCR loan? It stands for “Debt Service Coverage Ratio,” and it’s a type of loan that focuses on the income of the property, not your personal income. Why does this matter? Because it can make financing easier for investors who may not have a high personal income, or investors who use tax strategies that reduce their taxable income.

Imagine you have a rental property ready to go. With a DSCR loan, the lender looks at the income this property will bring in to cover the loan payments. If the income covers your costs, you could qualify! This setup is great for newer investors or for those who want to scale up without diving into personal financials.

Contact Us Today! 

Is a DSCR loan right for you? Contact us today to find out more about DSCR loans!

Free Tools For You! 

We also have free tools available! Download the DSCR Quick Calculator to see if it’s the best option for your investment properties! 

Learn more!

Visit our YouTube channel to learn more about real estate investing and how you can get on the fast track to success! 

 

by

Why DSCR Loans Are Great for Real Estate Investors

Categories:

When it comes to real estate investing, finding the right loan can make all the difference. DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loans offer unique benefits that help you grow your portfolio faster than traditional loans. Let’s explore three key reasons why DSCR loans are great for real estate investors.

1. No Tax Returns Required

One of the biggest hurdles with traditional loans is the need to show personal or business tax returns. If you’re just starting your real estate journey or if your tax returns don’t reflect the income you need to qualify, this can be a roadblock.

Example: Imagine you’re new to real estate and haven’t filed tax returns for the past two years. With traditional loans, this could delay your investment plans. But with a DSCR loan, you can move forward because it focuses on the property’s income, not your personal tax situation.

2. No Business History Needed

Banks and traditional lenders often require a long business history to approve a loan. This can be a problem if you recently switched from a W-2 job to self-employment or moved to a new city.

Example: Let’s say you moved from Austin to Denver and started working as a contractor. Traditional lenders might turn you down because you lack the business history in that field. However, with a DSCR loan, you’re still eligible as long as the property you’re investing in can cover its costs with rental income.

3. Start Building Wealth Faster

With DSCR loans, you don’t have to wait years to build up your income or adjust your tax returns to qualify for a loan. Instead, you can begin investing in rental properties now, speeding up your journey toward financial growth.

Example: If you have a property that generates rental income, a DSCR loan allows you to invest right away. This means you’re not wasting time trying to make your financials look good on paper—you’re already growing your wealth.

Why Choose a DSCR Loan?

DSCR loans are an excellent option if you’re focused on growing your rental property portfolio. They let you start now, without waiting years to meet strict bank requirements. Plus, these loans are specifically designed for rental properties, ensuring that your investment has the best chance to succeed.

If you’re ready to dive into real estate investing, check out our DSCR calculator on The Cash Flow Company website. It’s a great tool to see if your property qualifies and how much you can potentially earn.

Ready to Grow Faster?

DSCR loans help you break free from the traditional loan restrictions, making it easier to start and grow your real estate investments. If you’re serious about building wealth, a DSCR loan might be the key to reaching your goals faster.

For more tips and tools to help you succeed in real estate investing, explore our resources or reach out to us with any questions!

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Why DSCR Loans Are Great for Real Estate Investors

by

Real Estate Market Update for Investors – September 2024

Categories:

Real Estate Market Update for Investors – September 2024

Welcome to Your September 2024 Market Update

Hey there, it’s Mike with The Cash Flow Company! I’m here to give you a quick rundown of where the real estate market is headed and what it means for you as an investor. Whether you’re looking at DSCR loans, fix-and-flip projects, or even conventional rates, I’ve got you covered. Let’s take a closer look at the real estate market update for investors.

DSCR Loans: Rates are Dropping

If you’ve been eyeing DSCR loans, there’s some good news. We’ve seen rates drop by about 30 basis points this month alone. For well-qualified clients with strong properties, rates are now in the high sixes for 75% to 80% loan-to-value (LTV) ratios. That’s a significant decrease and nearly half a point lower than just a few months ago.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, it’s a bit uncertain. The Federal Reserve is likely to increase rates by a quarter-point in September, and they’re talking about a few more hikes before the year ends. However, DSCR rates are based on a 5-year term rather than a 10-year, so they may fluctuate differently. However, by the end of the year, we could see these rates dip into the low sixes and possibly even the high fives early next year.

Conventional Rates: A Better Time for Buyers

Why should you care about conventional rates? Well, they’re crucial because they determine what your end buyers can afford. Right now, we’re seeing rates in the high fives and are around 5.625% to 5.75% for those with excellent credit and strong LTVs on owner-occupied properties.

Looking Forward

If the Fed continues to drop rates, we could see conventional rates fall into the low fives by the end of the year or early next year. While I don’t expect rates to drop more than a point or point and a half in the next 12 months, even these modest decreases will make a big difference. More buyers in the market mean more opportunities to sell your properties and move on to the next deal.

Fix-and-Flip Loans: Trending Downward

Now, let’s talk fix-and-flip loans. If you’ve got experience, which is 10 or more projects under your belt in the last two to three years, then you’re in luck. Rates for seasoned investors are now dipping back into the 8% range. Even better, we’re seeing lenders offer 10% down and 100% financing options, depending on your credit score.

What to Expect

This trend of decreasing rates is likely to continue, with some lenders already offering rates below 10% and even into the 8% range for well-qualified investors. Don’t expect huge changes by the end of the year, though. We might see another quarter or half-point drop, but this new reality of lower rates is here to stay, at least for the next 6 to 9 months.

The Bottom Line

So, what’s the takeaway? Rates are trending down across the board. That’s great news for cash flow, affordability, and getting your properties sold. The past year has been tough with high rates, but the tide is turning. More buyers are entering the market, properties are starting to cash flow again, and there’s a lot more activity overall.

Stay Updated with Our Mortgage Report

Want to keep up with where rates are headed? We’ve got a mortgage report that tracks the trends and tells you who’s offering the best rates for fix-and-flip, DSCR, and other loan products. Watch our most recent video to find out more about Real Estate Market Update for Investors – September 2024

by

The Six Money Buckets You Need in Real Estate Investing

Categories:

The Six Money Buckets You Need in Real Estate Investing

As a real estate investor, it’s crucial to always be ready for opportunities. Successful investors have two key secrets: always looking for properties and being prepared to buy them. Now, let’s dive into the six money buckets that help them stay ready.

1. Other People’s Money (OPM)

Firstly, consider Other People’s Money (OPM). This includes family, friends, and other investors. They can lend you money without credit or income checks. For example, if you need $20,000 for a down payment, you can call someone from your OPM bucket. You might offer them a return of 8-12%, which is better than what they’d get from a bank.

2. Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs)

Next, think about Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELOCs). If you have equity in your home or rental properties, a HELOC can be a flexible funding source. For instance, you can use a HELOC to withdraw money for down payments or to fix up properties. The best part is, you only pay interest on what you use.

3. Business Credit Cards

Moreover, business credit cards are a fantastic tool. Unlike personal credit cards, they don’t affect your personal credit score. This helps keep your credit in good shape for future loans. For example, you can use these cards to pay for repairs or other expenses without impacting your credit score.

4. Hard Money Lenders

Then, there are Hard Money Lenders. These lenders don’t focus on your credit or experience. They can lend you more money for flips or 100% for BRRR projects. Because of their flexibility, they are great for deals in remote areas or properties that need significant work.

5. Private Lenders

Additionally, Private Lenders are essential. They provide loans without needing your tax returns. For example, private lenders like Kiavi or RCN Capital might offer 90% of the purchase price and 100% of rehab costs. While they take longer to close, they are less costly than hard money lenders.

6. Local Banks

Finally, don’t forget Local Banks. They usually offer lower rates and fewer points. They might take longer to close, but they can be great for projects that aren’t time-sensitive. For example, if you’re planning a major renovation, a local bank’s loan might be perfect.

Conclusion

In conclusion, having these six money buckets at your disposal can make you a more flexible and prepared investor. Each bucket serves a different purpose and offers unique benefits. By building and maintaining these funding sources, you can ensure you’re always ready to seize opportunities and grow your real estate business.

For more tips and tools, visit The Cash Flow Company. Here, you’ll find resources like our deal analyzer and a detailed guide on money buckets to help you succeed.

by

HELOC: Make Real Estate Investing Easier, Faster, and Cheaper

Categories:

HELOC: Make Real Estate Investing Easier, Faster, and Cheaper

At The Cash Flow Company, we always strive to make investing easier for you. One tool that can significantly help is the HELOC. A HELOC, or Home Equity Line of Credit, is essential for making real estate investing simpler, faster, and more cheaper. Therefore, by opening a HELOC, you gain flexibility, allowing you to fund deals yourself or secure contracts quickly. In fact, it’s surprising that not all investors have a HELOC on at least one of their properties. The benefits are so apparent that it’s wild more people don’t use them. Let’s dive into why a HELOC is a game-changer for real estate investors.

What is a HELOC?

A HELOC, or Home Equity Line of Credit, is like a big credit card for your home. It lets you borrow against the equity in your property. This can be your own home or a rental property. To clarify, you can get a HELOC on a home with no mortgage or even one that already has a mortgage.

Why Use a HELOC for Real Estate Investing?

Using a HELOC can make your investing journey easier, faster, and cheaper. Here’s how:

  1. Flexibility: Access funds whenever you need them. You can write a check or wire money instantly.
  2. Lower Costs: Save on interest rates, fees, and other costs associated with traditional loans.
  3. Speed: No waiting for loan approval. Be a true cash buyer and grab deals quickly.

How Does a HELOC Work?

Think of a HELOC as a revolving line of credit, much like a credit card. Here are the steps to use it:

  1. Get Approved: Apply at a bank or credit union.
  2. Draw Period: Use the funds for up to 10 years. You can pay it back and use it again, just like a credit card.
  3. Flexibility: Use it for down payments, purchases, or even repairs.

Examples of HELOCs in Action

Example 1:
Imagine you own a property worth $300,000 and get a HELOC for $200,000. You find a great deal on another property for $150,000. You can use your HELOC to buy it quickly, without waiting for a traditional loan approval.

Example 2:
Let’s say you own a property worth $400,000 and owe $250,000 on it. You get a HELOC for $75,000. Someone comes to you with a good deal on a property for $75,000. You can write a check from your HELOC and buy it immediately.

Benefits of a HELOC

First, Lower Interest Rates: Typically lower than credit cards and even some private loans. For example, while credit cards can have rates in the 20s, HELOCs often have rates around 8-9%.

Second, No Extra Fees: Save on appraisals, underwriting, and other processing fees. This can save you thousands of dollars per deal.

Third, Convenience: Use checks or debit cards linked to your HELOC for quick access to funds.

Why Aren’t More Investors Using HELOCs?

Many investors don’t use HELOCs because they find them confusing. But, with a bit of understanding, they can see how beneficial it can be. Even a small HELOC can cover down payments or monthly payments, making investing smoother.

How Much Can You Get with a HELOC?

The amount you can borrow depends on your property’s value and the current economy. Banks might lend up to 80-90% of your home’s value. Even if you start with a lower amount, you can always refinance later as the economy improves.

Setting Up Your HELOC

  1. Pay Down One Property: Focus on reducing the mortgage on one property to free up equity.
  2. Apply for a HELOC: Once you have enough equity, apply for a HELOC to use for future investments.

HELOC Tools and Resources

At The Cash Flow Company, we provide a HELOC questionnaire to help you determine the best options for you. Visit our website and check under the Tools section.

Apply for a HELOC today!

In conclusion, a HELOC can be a powerful tool for real estate investors. By not only offering flexibility and lower costs, but speed as well, it makes investing easier and more efficient. Therefore, if you want to streamline your investing process, consider setting up a HELOC. With the right strategy, you can use your home equity to seize opportunities quickly and grow your wealth faster. Visit our website to explore HELOC options and get started today.

Watch our most recent video: HELOC: Make Real Estate Investing Easier, Faster, and Cheaper

 

by

Why You Need the Loan Cost Optimizer

Categories:

Why You Need the Loan Cost Optimizer

Today we are discussing why you need the Loan Cost Optimizer. This is an excellent tool that helps you find the best loan for your investment needs. Just like a house, a contractor, or a realtor, loans cost money and, more importantly, impact your bottom line. So, why do you need this tool in your real estate investment toolbox? Let’s take a closer look! 

Loans are complicated!

In a nutshell, loans can be complicated. However, it’s all about simple math. There are a number of things that affect the total cost of your loan including interest rates, loan term, and fees. This tool on the other hand, allows you to compare different loan scenarios both quickly and easily. Not only are you able to input different scenarios, but you can also compare costs in order to find the best deal. There is no need to be overwhelmed trying to find the right loan! 

Example 1

: Short-Term Fix and Flip

  • Loan Term: 3 months
  • Interest Rate: 8%
  • Fees: $2,000

Total Cost: $4,000

Example 2: Long-Term Renovation

  • Loan Term: 12 months
  • Interest Rate: 6%
  • Fees: $5,000

Total Cost: $11,000

With this in mind, even though the interest rate is lower in the long-term loan, the additional fees make it more expensive.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using a Loan Cost Optimizer can help find the best loan for your deal. In fact, understanding and comparing the total costs, will allow you to make smarter decisions. More importantly it allows you to maximize your profits as well!

Visit our website and try our Loan Cost Optimizer today! It’s free and easy to use. You don’t have to commit to anything, just see how it works and find the best loan for your next project.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Why You Need the Loan Cost Optimizer

by

Real Estate Investing: How to Make Money Now Versus Later

Categories:

Real Estate Investing: How to Make Money Now Versus Later

Welcome to the world of real estate investing! Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting, it’s essential to understand the different strategies that can help you make money now versus later. Let’s dive into how you can maximize your investments both short-term and long-term.

Making Money Now

Interest-Only Loans

An interest-only loan is a type of mortgage where you only pay the interest on the loan for a set period of time. This means that your monthly payments are lower because you’re not paying down the principal balance yet. By switching to an interest only loan you have an easier time qualifying, improve your cash flow, and can also be approved for higher loan amounts! 

Making Money Later

Long-Term Investment Strategy

Real estate investing isn’t just about making money now; it’s also about building wealth over time. Here’s how long-term strategies can help you achieve that.

Different Philosophies in Real Estate Investing:

Some investors aim to buy properties and pay them off as a retirement plan. Others prefer to keep refinancing and taking out cash to reinvest. It is important to keep in mind that by refinancing, it can help you to take advantage of lower interest rates and property appreciation. It also allows you to pull out cash from your properties to reinvest or cover personal expenses.

Immediate Cash Flow vs. Long-Term Wealth:

  • Immediate Cash Flow:

      • Great for investors who need cash now.
      • Interest-only loans provide more monthly cash flow.

  • Long-Term Wealth:

    • Ideal for investors focusing on future growth.
    • Refinancing and property appreciation build wealth over time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Strategy:

  • Personal financial goals
  • Current market conditions
  • Risk tolerance

Combining Both Strategies for a Balanced Portfolio:

  • Use interest-only loans to improve cash flow now.
  • Plan to refinance and invest in long-term properties for future wealth.

Conclusion

Real estate investing offers various strategies that can help you make money now and build wealth for the future. It is important to assess your personal goals, consider market conditions, and choose the right approach for your investment needs. For personalized advice and loan options, contact The Cash Flow Company. We’re here to help you succeed in your real estate investing journey!

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Real Estate Investing: How to Make Money Now Versus Later

by

Loan Cost Optimizer: Find the BEST Loan for Your Deal

Categories:

Loan Cost Optimizer: Find the BEST Loan for Your Deal

Today we are going to discuss our Loan Cost Optimizer! This crucial financial tool helps you find the best loan for your real estate deal. Just like a house, a contractor, or a realtor, loans cost money and, more importantly, impact your bottom line. So, why wouldn’t you shop around and find the right one? 

Understanding Loan Costs.

In a nutshell, loans can be complicated. However, when you break it down, it’s all about simple math. Here’s what you need to consider:

  • Interest Rates: How much you pay to borrow the money.
  • Loan Term: The length of time you’ll be paying back the loan.
  • Fees: These include origination fees, appraisal fees, inspection fees, and more.

Therefore, each of these factors affects the total cost of your loan.

Why Use a Loan Cost Optimizer?

A Loan Cost Optimizer helps you compare different loan scenarios. By entering details about your project, you can see which loan costs you the least. Here’s how it works:

  1. Input Different Scenarios: Enter details like loan amount, interest rate, fees, and loan term.
  2. Compare Costs: See the total cost for each scenario.
  3. Find the Best Deal: Choose the loan that saves you the most money.

Examples

Let’s look at some examples to see how this works.

Example 1: Short-Term Fix and Flip

  • Loan Term: 3 months
  • Interest Rate: 8%
  • Fees: $2,000

Total Cost: $4,000

Example 2: Long-Term Renovation

  • Loan Term: 12 months
  • Interest Rate: 6%
  • Fees: $5,000

Total Cost: $11,000

With this in mind, even though the interest rate is lower in the long-term loan, the fees in addition to the longer term make it more expensive.

Tips for Using the Loan Cost Optimizer

This is an excellent tool that real estate investors can use in order to find the best loan option for their needs. It’s as easy as one, two, three! First, enter accurate details to ensure you get the best comparisons. Second, compare multiple loans to find the best option. Finally, consider the entire cost. This cost includes both the fees as well as the terms. To clarify, the entire cost is not just the interest rate. Additionally, there are a few more things that you need to keep in mind as well. Let’s take a look.

`1. Each Project is Different

Since every project has unique needs, it is important that you find the best loan every time. For example, sometimes you might need 100% financing, while other times, you can put more money down. With this in mind, let’s see how different scenarios can affect your choice:

  • Quick Flips: Higher interest rates along with lower fees might be better.
  • Longer Projects: Lower interest rates in addition to higher fees could be more cost-effective.

2. Keep Your Costs Low

In order to make the most money from your investments, keep your loan costs low. Here’s how:

  • Negotiate Fees: Don’t be afraid to ask for lower fees.
  • Shop Around: Compare offers from different lenders.
  • Match Loans to Projects: Use the Loan Cost Optimizer to find the best fit for each project.

Conclusion

Ultimately, using a Loan Cost Optimizer can help you find the best loan for your deal. In fact, by understanding and comparing the total costs, you can not only make smarter decisions but more importantly maximize your profits as well!

Ready to get started? Visit our website and try our Loan Cost Optimizer today! It’s free and easy to use. You don’t have to commit to anything, just see how it works and find the best loan for your next project.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Loan Cost Optimizer: Find the BEST Loan for Your Deal

by