Tag Archive for: The Cash Flow Company

The Real Estate Investor’s Battle: Hurdles and Solutions

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The Real Estate Investor’s Battle: Hurdles and Solutions

Do you want to use other people’s money to generate cash flow? Wondering what hurdles you will face along the way? Unfortunately people tend to get greedy and let emotions take over their investing decisions. They begin purchasing multiple properties in a short period of time, which is not always a profitable method. Investing is all about the numbers and determining whether a property will create cash flow, or will instead create spiraling debt. By setting your business up correctly and not letting your emotions take over, the sky’s the limit for your success. Let’s take a closer look at the real estate hurdles and the solutions that will get you back on track. 

First, limit the number of properties

We see so many people who want to do 5 or 6 deals a year. In doing so, they tend to lose money on at least 2 if not 3 of those properties. Thus resulting in investors breaking even, as opposed to making money. By taking on too much too quickly, investors fail to grow their money. It is possible in 3 years to obtain good wealth, but achieving it in one year is very difficult. Be strategic to ensure that you’re making money on each deal!

Second, regulate your emotions

80% to 90% of people either take on too much, or they let their emotions drive their business. Even though they know their numbers going into a deal, many investors let their emotions drive the bidding. This causes them to become overextended and unfortunately results in little to no profit on the property. Real estate investment is designed for everyone, however it’s only profitable for those who can take their energy and put it back into the property.

Third, leverage

It is imperative that you leave your emotions out of the deal and instead focus your attention on the leverage that your investment holds. As an investor, you have to understand how to use leverage properly in order to create income and generational wealth. While not everyone has $300K to start investing, you need to make sure that the property can pay for itself. For example, if a property is bringing in $4K and is only costing $2K, then you can feel comfortable taking on another mortgage without facing financial strain.  

Fourth, do your research 

Whether you are house hacking or joining a fellow investor, you need to make sure that you are comfortable with the numbers before diving in. It is important to research and compare properties prior to investing to determine if the investment will be profitable. Another component in this process is evaluating the property for sellability. Unfortunately there are a number of properties that have been fixed quickly or had things covered up for a fast sale. In knowing what you are looking for, you can save time and money by investing in a property that people want to buy. 

In conclusion

There is a reason that it’s “simple not easy” in real estate investing. You have to follow the process and take the steps until you feel comfortable enough to eliminate the emotions. This in turn will prevent you from getting into a situation that could jeopardize your success. Finally, by getting help from realtors, designers, or even finding ideas online, you can ensure that you have something that your audience will love. We can help you tackle the hurdles and find solutions to the challenges that are holding you back from achieving cash flow.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about Real Estate Investment Hurdles and Solutions

If you have any questions on liquidity, fix and flip loans, or any other real estate investment questions, please reach out to us!

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Real Estate Investing: Points and Interest Explained

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Real Estate Investing: Points and Interest Explained

Today we are going to explain what points and interest are in regards to real estate investing. This is something that needs to be considered when you are applying for a loan in order to ensure that you get the best deal. Whether it’s a hard money loan, a private loan, a bank loan, or even OPM (Other People’s Money)? Each situation is different! It’s essential to know what works best for you. Let’s get started!

Factors to Consider

Speed of Funding

In real estate, speed can make or break a deal. Sellers prefer buyers who can close quickly with no hassle. So, you need to know which lender can fund the fastest.

Down Payment

Down payments can vary. With hard money, you might get 100% financing, but usually, you’ll need 10-20% down.

Example: If you’re buying a $300,000 property, a 10% down payment means you need $30,000 upfront.

Points and Interest Rates

Points are fees paid to the lender, usually as a percentage of the loan amount. Interest rates can range from 10% to 12% or more.

Example: On a $270,000 loan with 1 point, you’ll pay $2,700 upfront. At 12% interest, you’ll pay $2,700 monthly.

Additional Fees

Lenders may charge other fees like escrow fees, draw fees, underwriting, and appraisal fees. These can add up, especially on smaller loans.

Example: A $200,000 loan might come with $1,900 in fees, affecting your overall cost.

How to Choose the Best Loan

  1. Compare Costs: Use our free Loan Cost Optimizer tool on our website to compare lenders and see who offers the best deal.
  2. Check Funding Speed: Make sure your lender can close the deal quickly to avoid losing it.
  3. Evaluate All Fees: Look at points, interest rates, and other fees to get the full picture.

Conclusion

In sum, the best loan for your fix and flip is the one that costs you the least and funds on time. At The Cash Flow Company, our goal is to help you get the best lending options available. If you have a question or a deal to discuss, reach out to us. Visit our website, download our Loan Cost Optimizer, to not only compare lenders, but to also find the best deal for you.

Watch our most recent video to discover more about: Real Estate Investing: Points and Interest Explained

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Bank Collapse: How Real Estate Investors Can Prepare

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How Real Estate Investors Can Prepare for Bank Collapse

How can real estate investors prepare for the collapse of banks? What does that mean for them, and what does that mean for you as a real estate investor? We will coach you through this lending squeeze by not only looking at the challenges, but also highlighting lending alternatives that will help you stay afloat.

In the lending community, banks are experiencing a decrease of money flowing into the lending pool. Over 190 banks have been placed on the watch list because funds are leaving the bank at an accelerated pace. What does this mean for investors specifically?

There are three main ways this problem is impacting real estate investors today. Let’s dive in and discover more!

Changes to the Banks’ Lending Pool

1. Banks are Lending Less

Unfortunately, with the lending restrictions, banks are being forced to swim upstream in search of the “best of the best clients.” What makes up a perfect client? It’s those who have more cash in the bank, more revenue, and better credit scores. However, those specifications don’t always fit the majority of investors. 

2. Book of Debt

To put it briefly, savings accounts and CD’s that were booked years ago at low percentages are increasing dramatically. What started at a monthly profit of 3% to 4%, has become a deficit of 5% to 5.25%. This situation is forcing investors to sell bonds and get rid of old debt, so they are longer upside down on past assets.

3. Book of Business

Banks who wrote notes to businesses 3 to 5 years ago are now coming due. What started as 3%- 4% interest rates, has skyrocketed to 8%-10%. Unfortunately, because of this, many businesses can no longer qualify. What do banks do when notes become nonperforming? The government requires banks to put in more capital to help cover potential losses. Lending is not in the forefront of banks minds in the traditional sense. The primary option for investors is SBA loans, which are backed by the government, and therefore they do not have the same lending restrictions.  

Investors are Searching for New Lenders:

Why are they looking for new lenders? Investors are forced to explore uncharted waters to locate private lenders because banks are focused on the “best of the best.” This waterfall effect is forcing investors to cascade down to private lenders to keep their businesses afloat. With the influx of new clients, private lenders are also swimming upstream alongside banks, searching for borrowers with more experience, more money down, and more liquidity. Lenders who used to lend 75% ARV are now lending 75% LTV. This could result in investors spending 20%-30% more on each deal if you’re even able to qualify. 

Additional Aspect for Fix and Flip Properties

In regard to fix and flip properties, investors need to consider the current interest rates for homes. When rates go up, the ability for a buyer to buy a house goes down. In just two years’ time, a house for $295,000 in 2021 is now $500,000. The affordability of properties has stretched what investors can fit into their budget, and what they are able to qualify for depending on the DTI (debt to income). 

Managing the Lending Squeeze

How real estate investors prepare can will result in success when navigating these rough seas. The goal is to make sure you have cash, high credit scores, and that you are keeping up on projects.  Get into a deal now and hold it for 2-3 years to set yourself up for success.

Open your eyes to additional lending sources, such as “other people’s money” aka OPM, to fund part or even all of your projects. These are individuals within our community that can lend anywhere from $10,000 to $100,000. They are out there! It’s just a matter of knowing where to look and who to ask.

Money and credit are going to be your keys to making sure that you are in the game as the rates continue to increase. We can help guide you through the process of starting your business, increasing your credit scores, finding ways to improve your income, and helping with OPM options.

Need more help navigating these rough waters watch our most recent video!

We’ve raised millions of millions of dollars over the past 15 years by bringing in money from other investors who are just looking for a return. If you need coaching or help taking advantage of these opportunities give us a call! 

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The First Steps to Setting Up Your Business

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The First Steps to Setting Up Your Business

Today we are going to discuss the first steps to setting up your business. Whether you’re dreaming of flipping houses, building rental property portfolios, or simply exploring the vast opportunities in real estate, starting strong is crucial. Setting it up correctly from the beginning can make all the difference in how lenders and partners view you, and ultimately, in your success. Let’s get started! 

First: Choose a Name

  • Search for Availability: Immediately start by checking with your state to ensure the name is available.
  • Avoid Real Estate Specific Names: More importantly, opt for a generic name like “John Smith Consulting” instead of “John Smith Fix and Flip.”

Second: Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

  • Apply with the IRS: The EIN is actually a social security number for your business. It’s essential for not only tax purposes, but even for opening a bank account.

Third: Set Up a Business Bank Account

  • Separate Finances: Immediately separate business finances from personal finances. Keep your business and personal finances separate in order to make things clear for lenders.
  • Use Your EIN: Again, this is required to open a business bank account.

Forth: Establish Your Business Presence

  • Create a Website: By creating a simple website, it can show lenders as well as partners that you’re serious.
  • Get an Office Address: To clarify, even a virtual office can help establish credibility.

Setting Yourself Up to Win

  • Think Long-Term: By setting things up correctly from the start it makes future growth easier.
  • Be Realistic: Understand that while the process takes effort, it will easier over time as you build experience as well as a network.

Summary

By following these steps and staying committed, you’ll be well on your way to building your successful future. Remember, the key is to set up your foundation correctly and maintain consistent effort. Contact us today to find out more! 

Watch our most recent video: The First Steps to Setting Up Your Business 

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DSCR Loans: Does Your Rent Cover Your Costs?

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DSCR Loans: Does Your Rent Cover Your Costs?

Today we are going to discuss the importance of asking “does your rent cover costs” when considering a DSCR loan. Getting a DSCR loan can be both easy as well as rewarding. Let’s take a closer look! 

First and Foremost: Check Your Rent Coverage

First, ask yourself: does your rent cover all your costs? This includes:

  • Mortgage payment
  • Taxes
  • Insurance
  • HOA fees

While it’s not always necessary, by having your rent cover these costs can in turn help you get better rates as well as higher loan-to-value products. At the very least, aim to charge rent that covers your monthly payments. However, if it does, then you’ve passed the first step!

Example: Begin by imaging that you own a rental property. Your mortgage payment is $1,200, your taxes and insurance are $200, and your HOA fee is $100. Therefore, your total monthly cost is $1,500. However, if you charge $1,600 in rent, you are even able make a little extra.

Conclusion

In sum, determining your DSCR ratio you can determine if a DSCR loan is right for you. And that’s it! If you find any step challenging, don’t worry. Our team is here to help you. We’re eager to set you on a path that helps you make the money you need to live the life you want. Here at The Cash Flow Company we want to ensure that all of your questions are answered prior to purchasing a property. Contact us today to find out more! 

Watch our most recent video to find out more.

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Why You Need a Good Credit Score TODAY

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Why You Need a Good Credit Score TODAY

Today, we’re diving into why having a good credit score is important. Especially now, when getting a loan is more competitive than ever, you need to have a good score. Let’s explore why it matters and how you can improve it quickly.

The Loan Landscape is Changing

In the past, getting a loan was like picking apples from a tree, easy and abundant. However, now, the economic landscape has tightened. Imagine the loan market shrinking from a big ocean to a small puddle. Consequently, only the best credit scores float to the top, and are getting the attention of lenders.

Why Your Credit Score Matters

Faster Loan Approvals

Having a good credit score is like having a VIP pass. Lenders use computer models to sort through applications quickly. If your score is high, you get moved to the front of the line. As a result, your loan gets processed faster, and in turn helps you snag that investment property before someone else does.

Better Loan Terms

A higher credit score doesn’t just get you faster service, it also gets you better terms as well. This can mean lower interest rates as well as more favorable loan conditions. Over time, these benefits add up to significant savings.

Personal Credit vs. Business Credit

The Impact of Personal Credit

Many business owners and real estate investors often use personal credit cards for their expenses. Unfortunately, this can negatively affect your score because personal cards report to your personal credit score. High balances or late payments can also bring your score down.

The Benefits of Business Credit Cards

Switching to business credit cards can make a big difference. To clarify, business cards don’t report to your personal credit score as long as you pay on time. Therefore, you can use them freely without worrying about hurting your credit. Plus, business credit card companies often reward you for using your card. Personal credit card companies on the other hand might lower your limit if they see high usage.

The 911 Loan: A Quick Fix

If you need a quick boost to your credit score, a 911 Loan can help. This loan is designed to improve your score fast, getting you in shape for better loan terms. But it doesn’t stop there. After the 911 Loan, it’s important to set up your finances correctly. This means moving to business credit cards as well as managing your credit smartly. By doing this, you can prevent future issues and save a lot of money in the long run.

Real-Life Savings

Imagine missing out on a prime property because your loan didn’t get approved in time. Or paying 2% more in interest over the next 30 years. These scenarios cost real money, which can sometimes be tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. Thus, a good credit score can help you avoid these costly mistakes.

Conclusion

Your credit score is more important than ever. With the loan market tightening, having a good score can mean the difference between getting the funding you need and missing out. By understanding the impact of your credit choices and making smart moves, you can set yourself up for success. So, take the time to improve your credit score today! It’s an investment in your future.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Why You Need a Good Credit Score TODAY</b>

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Why You Need to Get Pre-Approved in BRRRR

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Why You Need to Get Pre-Approved in BRRRR

Today, we are discussing the importance of getting pre-approved in BRRRR. To clarify, BRRRR stands for Buy, Rehab, Rent, Refinance, and Repeat. Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Getting Long-term Loan Approval

Before buying, secure a pre-approval from a long-term lender. This step ensures you know the maximum loan amount you qualify for, which is crucial for the refinancing stage later on.

Buying with a Short-term Loan

Next, use a short term loan, like a hard money loan, to purchase the property. Short term loans are essential for fast closings and approved within days or weeks.

Rehabbing the Property

Once you own the property, it’s time to rehab it. Focus on making necessary repairs to meet the After Repair Value (ARV). Most importantly, remember that this is a rental property, so avoid high-end finishes. Just make it appealing and functional.

Renting the Property

After the rehab, find a reliable tenant. By renting the property, you journey begins because you are generating money.

Refinancing

Finally, refinance your short-term loan into a long-term mortgage. This step not only reduces your monthly payments, but it locks in a lower interest rate also. Having pre-approval speeds up this process while saving you money.

Repeating the Process

Build a robust rental property quickly and easily by being pre-approved in BRRRR today. Set your goals, search for the right properties, secure financing, and repeat the process. Contact us to find out more! Watch our most recent video.

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Expert Tips for Starting and Growing Your Real Estate Empire

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Expert Tips for Starting and Growing Your Real Estate Empire

Welcome to your journey in real estate investing! Whether you’re dreaming of flipping houses, building rental property portfolios, or simply exploring the vast opportunities in real estate, starting strong is crucial. Today we will be sharing expert tips for starting and growing your real estate empire! It all begins by setting up your business correctly. This can make all the difference in how lenders and partners view you, and ultimately, in your success.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through essential steps to set up your real estate business. First, we’ll discuss choosing the right name, then we’ll move on to securing funding and finding great deals. Additionally, we’ll share practical tips and real-life examples to help you understand and apply these strategies effectively. With a clear plan and the right approach, you’ll be well on your way to building a thriving real estate empire. Let’s get started!

Setting Up Your Business for Success

First: Choose a Business Name

  • Search for Availability: Immediately start by checking with your state to ensure the name is available.
  • Avoid Real Estate Specific Names: More importantly, opt for a generic name like “John Smith Consulting” instead of “John Smith Fix and Flip.”

Second: Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

  • Apply with the IRS: The EIN is actually a social security number for your business. It’s essential for not only tax purposes, but even for opening a bank account.

Third: Set Up a Business Bank Account

  • Separate Finances: Immediately separate business finances from personal finances. Keep your business and personal finances separate in order to make things clear for lenders.
  • Use Your EIN: Again, this is required to open a business bank account.

Forth: Establish Your Business Presence

  • Create a Website: By creating a simple website, it can show lenders as well as partners that you’re serious.
  • Get an Office Address: To clarify, even a virtual office can help establish credibility.

Building Your Bucket of Money

Leverage Other People’s Money (OPM)

  • Private Loans: Begin by approaching family, friends, or other investors who are looking for better returns.
  • Show Confidence: Most importantly, know your projects well and present them confidently to potential lenders.

Use Business Credit Cards

  • Avoid Personal Cards: In fact, business credit cards don’t impact your personal credit score.
  • Build Your Business Credit: This will surely help you get better loans, as well as better rates in the future.

Finding Great Deals

Work with Wholesalers

  • What They Do: Since wholesalers find undervalued properties, they can offer them to investors at a slight markup.
  • Build Relationships: Therefore building relationships and getting to know wholesalers will help you find good deals.

Network with Real Estate Agents

  • Investor-Friendly Agents: Actually, some agents specialize in working with investors. Begin by finding those who understand your needs.

Growing Your Empire

First 90 Days: Lay the Foundation

  • Research and Networking: Spend time not only finding finding properties, but more importantly lenders as well.
  • Set Up Systems: By setting up a system, you can ensure that you have all your business basics in place.

Ongoing: Improve and Expand

  • Consistent Effort: Regularly look at properties and evaluate deals.
  • Learn and Adapt: Each project will teach you something new, which will actually make future projects easier and more profitable.

For Example: The 2008 Crash

  • Pivot to Private Money: Following the financial crisis in 2008, banks stopped lending. Successful investors turned to private lenders.
  • Build Trust: In deed establishing good relationships with private lenders can provide a stable source of funding in the future.

Setting Yourself Up to Win

  • Think Long-Term: By setting up your business correctly from the start it makes future growth easier.
  • Be Realistic: Understand that while the process takes effort, it will easier over time as you build experience as well as a network.

Summary

  • Get Organized: From your business name to your EIN and bank accounts, make sure everything is set up properly from the very beginning.
  • Find Funding: Use a mix of business credit cards, private loans, and other funding sources.
  • Network: Build relationships with wholesalers, as well as real estate agents in order to find the best deals.
  • Stay Consistent: Regular effort and learning will lead to success and growth in your real estate empire.

To put it briefly, by following these steps and staying committed, you’ll be well on your way to building a successful real estate business. After all, the key is to set up your foundation correctly and maintain consistent effort. Do you have any question regarding where to get started or how to grow your empire? Contact us today to find out more! 

Watch our most recent video: Expert Tips for Starting and Growing Your Real Estate Empire

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Why a DSCR Loan is Perfect for Real Estate investors

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Why a DSCR Loan is Perfect for Real Estate investors

Many investors ask why a DSCR loan is perfect for real estate investing. To clarify, a DSCR loan stands for Debt Service Coverage Ratio loan and is designed specifically for real estate investors. This type of loan helps you buy rental properties, whether they are long-term or short-term rentals. However, It’s not for flips or homes you plan to live in.

Why Choose a DSCR Loan?

Choosing a DSCR loan can be a smart move for several reasons:

  1. Easy Qualification: You don’t need to worry about how long you’ve been in business or your personal income. Even if you started your business yesterday, you could qualify.
  2. Focus on Property Income: The loan qualification is based on the income generated by the property, not your personal income.
  3. 30-Year Loan Options: You get a good 30-year loan product, which can provide stability and predictability.

How Does a DSCR Loan Work?

The key to a DSCR loan is that it focuses on the property’s ability to generate enough income to cover its expenses. Here’s how it works:

  1. Property Income: The income from the rental property should at least cover the mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and any HOA or flood insurance fees.
  2. Credit Score: Your personal credit score is important. The higher your score, the better the terms and rates.
  3. Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV): This is the amount of the loan compared to the property’s value. Lower LTV means less risk for lenders and better terms for you.

Who Can Benefit from a DSCR Loan?

DSCR loans are perfect for:

  • New Investors: If you’ve just started your real estate investment journey, you can qualify even without a long business history.
  • Tax Savvy Investors: If you write off a lot of expenses on your taxes, which can reduce your reported income, this loan can still work for you.
  • Expanding Portfolios: Investors looking to add more rental properties can benefit from the flexible qualification criteria.

Example

Imagine you are an investor who just started a year ago. You found a great rental property, but traditional lenders won’t approve your loan because you don’t have two years of business income. A DSCR loan can help. As long as the rental income covers the mortgage and other expenses, you can get the loan and grow your investment portfolio.

Get Started with a DSCR Loan Today

A DSCR loan is an excellent loan for real estate investors. Is it right for your investment needs? Contact us at The Cash Flow Company. We have the tools and expertise to help you understand your options and find the best loan for your needs.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: Why a DSCR Loan is Perfect for Real Estate investors

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Why You Need the Loan Cost Optimizer

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Why You Need the Loan Cost Optimizer

Today we are going to discuss why you need the loan cost optimizer! When taking into consideration which loan is best for your fix and flip, it is imperative that you compare everything side by side. Whether it’s a hard money loan, a private loan, a bank loan, or even OPM (Other People’s Money), each situation is different. That is why it’s essential to know what works best for you. Let’s get started!

Understanding Leverage

Leverage is key in real estate investing to create wealth. Think of leverage like a tool. When used right, it helps you build faster and better. Here’s what you need to know to ensure you get the best leverage:

Consider the Cost and Value

Just like hiring a contractor, you need to look at what you’re paying for and what you’re getting. It’s not always about the cheapest option but the best value. Typically, you might hear that hard money is more expensive than private money, but let’s dig deeper to see if that’s true.

How to Choose the Best Loan

  1. Compare Costs: Use our free Loan Cost Optimizer tool on our website to compare lenders and see who offers the best deal.
  2. Check Funding Speed: Make sure your lender can close the deal quickly to avoid losing it.
  3. Evaluate All Fees: Look at points, interest rates, and other fees to get the full picture.

Conclusion

In sum, the best loan for your fix and flip is the one that costs you the least and funds on time. By using the cost loan optimizer you can see everything side by side before making a decision. At The Cash Flow Company, our goal is to help you get the best lending options available. If you have a question or a deal to discuss, reach out to us. Visit our website, download our Loan Cost Optimizer, and compare lenders to find the best deal for you.

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

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