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Hard Money Loan Calculator

Hard money loans are short-term, asset-based loans used by house flippers and developers. They have high interest rates and points, but fund fast based on the property's potential.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter your loan amount and the hard money interest rate (often 10-14%).
  2. Set the loan term in months (usually 6-12 months).
  3. Enter the 'points' charged upfront (1 point = 1% of the loan amount).
  4. Toggle between Interest Only (standard) or Amortized payments.

What your results mean

Hard money is expensive money. You'll see your monthly payment (usually interest-only), the steep upfront cost of the points, and the total cost of capital. Speed and leverage are what you're paying for.

5 tips for using hard money loans

  • Never use hard money for a long-term hold unless you have a guaranteed, fast exit strategy (like a BRRRR refinance).
  • Negotiate the points. If you're an experienced flipper, lenders will often drop from 2-3 points down to 1-1.5.
  • Always have a contingency fund. If your flip takes 3 months longer than expected, the extra interest can wipe out your profit.
  • Ensure the lender doesn't charge a prepayment penalty if you finish the flip early.
  • Understand 'draw schedules'. Hard money lenders hold back rehab funds and release them in draws as work is completed.

Frequently asked questions