Tag Archive for: The Cash Flow Company

Credit Score Shock: Understanding Why it Takes a Hit

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Credit Score Shock: Understanding Why it Takes a Hit

More often than not, businesses are using their own credit for business expenses, thus creating credit score shock. Whether it’s for fix and flip projects, paying contractors, or even a regular trip io Home Depot, it all takes a toll. By doing this, people are increasing their credit utilization rate to a concerning level. 

Usage 

Usage is tricky and counterintuitive, because it is constantly testing willpower. Looking closer, usage makes up 30% of your overall credit score. Not making payments on time can push this rate up to 35% or more.

MyFico

Personal credit cards are tracked by MyFico. Fico wants to see people at 20% or less of their available credit. We see a lot of people who have $50,000, $100,000, or sometimes even more in credit card debt. By continuing high usage habits or maxing out credit cards, it can create a hard hit against personal credit scores.

Debt Apples to Apples:

An example of this would be two individuals with similar jobs, income, and savings. Person A has $1,000 on a $1,500 limit card, and Person B has $1,000 on a $5,000 limit card. Both owe the same amount; however, Person A would take a harder hit because the credit utilization rate is much higher. Those who don’t owe very much could fix it quickly by simply increasing their credit limit through a different company. 

In Summary:

What’s happening to the people who are not used to the higher percentages? The feds are going to make it harder to get funding until they get it to the point where no one is spending money. 

Watch our latest video to find out more about credit score shock!

If you want to be in business and take advantage of the current market, give us a call. We can help you learn the ins and outs of what is affecting your credit score.

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How a Bank Collapse Impacts Real Estate Investors

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How a Bank Collapse Impacts Real Estate Investors

Without a doubt, banks are experiencing a significant decrease of money flowing into the lending pool. But, how does this impact investors? There are three main ways a bank collapse could impact real estate investors today. What are they? Let’s dive in and discover more!

Banks are Lending Less

Nowadays, banks are being forced to swim upstream in search of the “best of the best clients.” But what makes a perfect client? Well, it’s those who have more cash in the bank, more revenue, and higher credit scores.

Investors Book of Debt

To put it briefly, savings accounts and CD’s that were booked years ago at low percentages are experiencing a dramatic increase. What started at a monthly profit of 3% to 4%, has become a deficit of 5% to 5.25%. For this reason, investors are now upside-down on their assets.

Book of Business

Now, the notes that banks wrote 3 to 5 years ago, are now coming due. What started at 3%- 4% interest rates, has skyrocketed to 8%-10%. As you can see, lending is no longer in the forefront of banks’ minds in the traditional sense. 

How Investors are Managing the Lending Squeeze

So, what can real estate investors do? To start, they can prepare by making sure they have cash, high credit scores, and keeping up on projects. At this point and time, money and credit are going to be your keys to success. They are what will ensure you are in the game as rates continue to rise.  

Undoubtedly, there’s a bank collapse on the horizon. But as long as you’re aware of the situation and are willing to put in some work, you’ll be okay. Plus, we can guide you through a bank collapse by helping you improve your credit sores, increase your cash flow, and explore alternative lending options. Contact us today! 

Do you need more resources on how to navigate a bank collapse? Watch our most recent video to learn more!

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5 Major Roadblocks in Real Estate Investing Solutions Revealed

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5 Major Roadblocks in Real Estate Investing

Did you know there are 5 major roadblocks in real estate investing? From buying and holding rentals, to flipping properties, to dividing land, investors face numerous roadblocks that create frustration, and lead to defeat. But fear not! When investors identify these 5 roadblocks, they can ease their frustration, prevent a finance wall, and learn how to create consistent cash flow.

We work with many clients, including those who are just starting out on their real estate investment journey, to those who have become experts. Every day, our company receives numerous calls  from people saying, “I wish I would have,” or “I wish I did that too.” Therefore, we’ve  created a guide to help others skip bumps in the road that can impact their success. When you’re aware of these 5 roadblocks, do your research before embarking on your real estate journey, and reevaluate quarterly, the sky’s the limit.

So, what are the 5 Major Roadblocks that cause burn out, financial hemorrhaging, and, unfortunately, defeat? Well, here’s what you need to know to make your real estate investments successful.

5 Major Roadblocks:

1. Cash Flow 

The first roadblock that can greatly affect your success is not understanding the importance of cash flow. If your property’s expenses outweigh your profits, then that’s going to hurt you and your business. You want to make sure your profits are always greater than your expenses. The best way to avoid this roadblock is to make a plan and know your numbers upfront! Don’t dive into an investment before you know if your property will cash flow. 

2. Escrow 

The second roadblock every investor should understand is 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. So, if you want to optimize your profits and avoid missing the market when it’s “hot,” you need to take all repair costs into consideration, make sure you have money to get the repairs started without your lender’s help, and complete repairs quickly and correctly.

3. Too Many Projects

The third roadblock is having 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. 

4. Rentals

The fourth roadblock is navigating rental cash flow. The deal needs to be a positive investment not a negative one after considering all costs. These costs include rents, taxes, and insurance. In real estate investing, you cannot afford losses or simply break even. The numbers game is intense! It is vital that you are prepared and learn the ropes!

5. Personal Credit Usage

The fifth and final roadblock is the misuse of personal credit cards to cushion purchases or expenses. If you want to avoid spiraling into debt, then quickly set up your business and begin using a business credit card. Business credit cards are easy, fast, and make every investor’s life easier. 

At the end of the day, the ultimate goal is keeping personal and business expenses separate. It’s vital to a successful real estate investing.

Watch our latest interview to discover more about the 5 Major Roadblocks

 

Want more information on real estate investment roadblocks or have any other questions? Contact us today! 

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Why You Need Private Money for Your Deals

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Why You Need Private Money for Your Deals

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, leverage is the backbone to success. Today we will be sharing expert tips explaining why you need private money for your deals. 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!

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.

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.

Summary

To put it briefly, by finding the right leverage for you financial needs you will in turn set yourself up for success. 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: Why You Need Private Money for Your Deals 

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DSCR Loan and Your Credit Score

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DSCR Loan and Your Credit Score

Today we are going to discuss why getting a DSCR loan can be easy and rewarding with the right credit score. By ensuring that your credit is in the best position, you’ll be on your way to success!  Not only would you be getting a loan that’s perfect for you, but you would also increase your cash flow.

First and Foremost, Review Your Credit Score

Next, consider your credit score. You can get a DSCR loan with a score in the low 600s, but it will cost you more. To clarify, a lower credit score can add up to one or more percentage points. This can in turn increase your interest rate, which can increase your monthly payment by $200 to $400.

Example: Let’s say you have a credit score of 620. You might get a loan with a 7% interest rate instead of 6%. On a $200,000 loan, that extra 1% could mean paying $2,000 more per year in interest.

If you need tips to raise your score, check out resources like our YouTube channel for advice on improving your credit.

Conclusion

By reviewing your credit score and getting yourself in the best position, you will in turn get a better interest rate! 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.

Watch our most recent video to find out more about: DSCR Loan and Your Credit Score

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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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