A hard money loan is a short-term, asset-based loan secured by real estate. These loans are designed for real estate investors who need quick funding to acquire, renovate, or build properties — without the red tape of traditional banks.

Unlike conventional bank loans, which often involve lengthy approval processes, strict documentation requirements, and heavy scrutiny of your credit history and income, hard money loans are asset-based. This means the loan is secured by the real estate itself, and approval is based largely on the property's current value or its after-repair value (ARV) if renovations are planned.