Dan J. Harkey

Master Educator | Business & Finance Consultant | Mentor

Private & Hard Money Lending

Valuable Insight and Information About Private & Hard Money Lending

Dan has given 350 seminars, written books, sponsored legislation, and penned technical articles on real estate and lending. Dan’s website provides reliable information and guidance.

Brokers and agents play a crucial role in this subset of the lending industry, making and arranging loans funded by private investors and secured by real property. They operate as intermediaries with fiduciary responsibilities, facilitating the lending process. The lending criteria in this subset are more property/equity-driven and less credit/income-driven.

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Mastering the Initial Inquiry:

How Brokers Set the Stage for Loan Success

When Family Money Causes Contempt: Why Family Trusts Breed Conflict

Two brothers. One family trust. Zero agreement. When successor co-trustees can’t stand each other, personal agendas collide with fiduciary duty—and lenders get caught in the crossfire.

Some Borrowers Intentionally Withhold Material Facts- Quick Read

A case study in due diligence, lender risk control, and why saying “no” is sometimes the most brilliant move.

“Agency Law Uncovered: Myths, Risks, and Compliance for Real Estate Professionals.”

Agency Law isn’t “just paperwork.” Misunderstanding disclosures, fiduciary duties, and broker responsibilities can undermine your confidence, lead to costly mistakes, and threaten your reputation.

Private Lending Is Subject To Real Estate And Securities Laws

Private lending in California is not “just real estate.” It is governed by both Real Estate and Securities Laws, and compliance is essential to protect capital and avoid penalties, helping lenders feel secure in their operations.

Unlocking Private Money Lending: Why Financial Service Networks Matter

Financial service professionals hold the keys to untapping lending opportunities. Accountants, planners, brokers, and attorneys aren’t just advisors—they’re powerful referral engines. Understanding loan types and private money lending can transform those relationships into revenue, making it essential to grasp this space for network growth.

“Cost of Taking a Hard Money Loan vs. Consequences of Losing the Opportunity To Make a Lot More Money”

Mini Example (Points/Rate vs. Deposit Loss)

✅ When to Use Private Money (Checklist + Case Studies + Successful Exits)

Lightning-Speed Closings with Private/Hard Money Loans: The Pivot When Urgency Hits

When a deal is about to collapse, speed becomes more valuable than rate. Highlighting private money’s quick turnaround can help you feel assured in saving urgent transactions, especially when facing a hard deadline—a deposit at risk, a seller threatening to cancel, or a bank adding “one more condition.”

Hard Money, Fast Closings: The Bridge Loan That Rescues a Deal

When a deal is about to collapse, speed becomes more valuable than rate. If you’re staring at a hard deadline—earnest money at risk, a seller ready to walk, or a bank suddenly “discovering” one more condition—private money can be the difference between closing and losing.

Clear and Present Danger:

The Soon-To-Be Ex-Husband Tried to Sneak Behind His Soon-To-Be Ex-Wife and Encumber The Jointly Owned Home For A Real Estate Loan.

Try Being Deceptive With Your Soon-To-Be Ex-Wife And See What Happens.

When The Soon-To-Be Ex-Husband Tries to “F” Over Your Soon-To-Be Ex-Wife

How Real Estate Loans Actually Close: Planning, Execution, and Regulatory Discipline

Success in lending is never accidental; It requires a strategic endeavor.

Initial Borrower Loan inquiry: Best Practices for Speedy Closings

Written Reciprocal Access/Parking Agreement between Property Owners

Reciprocal Parking and Reciprocal Access Agreements

A field guide for inspectors, lenders, and anyone underwriting real estate risk

California Regulation 260.204.1 and Broker Due Diligence in Hard Money Lending

AB-1212, authored by Assembly Member Allister McAllister, highlights the critical role of real estate and mortgage brokers in “Hard Money” loans and outlines requirements to ensure compliance and protect their practices.

California Nonprofit & Church Property Tax Exemptions and SB 4: A Comprehensive Guide (2025)

It is essential to understand the criteria, filing requirements, and forms to ensure proper qualification for property tax exemptions and affordable housing programs.

AB 3108: Expands Criminal Liability for Real Estate and Mortgage Brokers