Private money loans are asset-based financing solutions designed for borrowers and investors who may not qualify for traditional loans or need quicker, more flexible funding. These programs focus primarily on the property’s value and equity rather than the borrower’s credit or income, making them ideal for bridge loans, fix-and-flip projects, commercial properties, and land acquisitions. Because of the increased risk and short-term nature, interest rates are higher (typically 9%–15%) and larger down payments or equity positions are required, but borrowers benefit from faster closings, streamlined underwriting, and the ability to finance unique scenarios that conventional lenders will not.

 

This program is ideal for buyers who:

  • Seek short-term bridge or fix-and-flip financing.
  • Purchase non-traditional properties (commercial, land, or multi-family).
  • Need quick access to capital without the strict guidelines of banks.

Scenario

Credit Score

Min Down

Max LTV

Rate

Notes

SFR

Any

20%

80%

12%–15%

Applies to Owner-Occupied.

SFR

Any

25%

75%

11%

Applies to Owner-Occupied and Investment Loans.

SFR

Any

35%

65%

10.5%

Same as above.

SFR

Any

40%

60%

10%

Same as above.

SFR

Any

45%

55%

9.5%

Same as above.

SFR

Any

50%

50%

9%

Depends on recency and re-established credit.

2–4 Family / Commercial

Any

35%

65%

12%+

24–60 month IO only. Lower leverage vs SFR.

Long-Term Option (up to 180 mo)

Any

20%

80%

9–12%

180-month term with 60-month IO available.

Occupancy Requirement

Primary residence


Allowed, but subject to HOEPA compliance (strict requirements).

Investment Property


Allowed for SFR, multi-family, commercial, and land.

Credit & DTI

FICO


Not a determining factor (program is primarily equity/asset-based).

Ratios


Flexible; focus is on collateral value and exit strategy.

Residency Eligibility

Eligible


  • Valid SSN — must have a valid Social Security Number (SSN).
  • Permanent residents — must provide a valid, unexpired Green Card.
  • Non-permanent residents — eligible with valid visa or Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
  • ITIN borrowers are eligible, provided the ITIN number matches consistently across all documents (such as W-2s, paystubs, and identification).

Ineligible


  • Foreign nationals without ITIN or valid U.S. ID.

Prepayment Penalty

Min Down

Notes

12-Month Bridge / Fix & Flip

3 months guaranteed interest

Applies if paid off early within the first 12 months.

24–60 Month Investor / Commercial / Land

6 months guaranteed interest

Applies if loan is paid off before 6 months of payments.

180-Month Long-Term Option

Case-by-case

May include limited prepay period or partial waiver.

Owner-Occupied (HOEPA)

Exempt

No prepayment penalty allowed by regulation.

Property Types

Eligible


  • SFRs,
  • 2–4 Units,
  • Condominium,
  • Commercial,
  • Manufactured Homes (on permanent foundation).

Note


  • Appraisal is required for all properties.

Seller Contributions

Maximum Contribution


Seller contributions are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Allowed Uses


Typically restricted to covering allowable closing costs. They cannot be applied toward the borrower’s down payment or reserves.

Disclaimer – This matrix was published on 10/02/2025. Program guidelines may have changed since then. Please contact Alexis to confirm the most current requirements. For complete details, refer to the Partner Matrices PDF or reach out directly to Alexis for program-specific guidance.

Leave a Comment

Contact Loan Officer

Alexis Andrade
Mortgage Loan Officer
NMLS #2553405
alexis@sjmorganple.com