Dan J. Harkey

Master Educator | Business & Finance Consultant | Mentor

Private & Hard Money Lending

Valuable Insight and Information About Private & Hard Money Lending

Private Lending Runs on Trust. Brokers Make It Work

In private and hard money lending, brokers and agents don’t just “find money”—they engineer the transaction. They act as intermediaries with fiduciary responsibilities, aligning Borrower needs with investor requirements while keeping the deal anchored to collateral value, risk, and an executable exit strategy. This site provides reliable insight—from structuring to underwriting to documentation—so your deals are defensible and your outcomes predictable.

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EBITDA- What is it?

EBITDA—short for Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization—measures a business’s core operational profitability, helping the audience see its practical importance in assessing performance. Unlike net income, it excludes financing costs, taxes, and non-cash expenses, offering a clearer view of operational performance.

GeoTracker in California is an Internet-accessible Database System Managed by the State Water Resources Control Board.

Its primary function is to track, store, and provide access to environmental compliance and contamination data for properties that may Impact groundwater or soil quality.

Foreclosure Laws and Procedures by State:

Understanding foreclosure laws is essential for anyone considering buying a foreclosure property. Unlike purchasing a home through the MLS, buying a foreclosure involves navigating state-specific rules and timelines. Every year, savvy investors and homeowners use foreclosure listings to uncover opportunities—but success depends on knowing the legal landscape.

Defaulted HOA Dues- Liens and Foreclosures: What Every Homeowner Should Know

If you fall behind on homeowners’ association (HOA) dues or assessments, understanding HOA lien laws is crucial because they directly affect your property rights and risk losing your home. Laws in various states differ. The primary difference is between states with super-priority lien status and those without.

Defaulted HOA Dues in California under the Davis-Stirling Act: An Overview of the Foreclosure Procedure

California regulates HOA foreclosures under the Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act (Civil Code §§ 5650–5730). HOAs have the authority to record liens and foreclose, but strict conditions and procedures apply.

AB 36 California: How Permanent Pro Housing Rules Are Rewiring Local Incentives—and What Comes Next- Technical Read

SB- 4: When the City of San Diego (or any other municipality) neglects to comply with State Housing Mandates, there are specific procedures to follow.

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC): Do they insure Trust Accounts?

Trust accounts are a common way to manage and distribute assets, but many account holders wonder: Are trust accounts insured by the FDIC? The answer is yes—under specific rules that were recently updated.

Introduction to Income Property Lender Practices and Underwriting: Chapter I, Section II

Poof! My Deal Just Went Up in Smoke: Why Real Estate Transactions Collapse and How to Salvage Them

In real estate, few things are more gut-wrenching than watching a deal unravel after weeks of effort. One moment, you’re celebrating a signed purchase agreement; the next, you’re explaining to your client why the closing won’t happen. Deals fall apart for many reasons—some preventable, others unavoidable. Understanding these pitfalls and remedies can save time, money, and relationships.

Title of Real Property Is Held in a Trust: The Trustor/Trustee Passes Away: Quick Read

The Trustor/Trustee Passes Away (dies): Title of Real Property Is Held by the Trustee of the Trust- Technical Read

Property Transfers of Related Parties to Related Parties:

California Statutory Exclusions From Property Tax Reassessment Under the Revenue and Taxation Code and Related Rules:

Introduction to Income Property Lender Practices and Underwriting Chapter I, Section I

Book published by Dan Harkey

Fix-and-Flip Loan Submission Checklist

Here’s a tailored Fix-and-Flip Loan Submission Checklist for mortgage brokers preparing a package for lenders.

Hard Money Loan Submission Checklist

Here’s a Hard Money Loan Submission Checklist specifically designed for mortgage brokers working with private or non-institutional lenders. These lenders typically prioritize asset-based lending, speed, and clear risk mitigation.

Loan Submission Package From a Mortgage Broker to a Lender

An effective loan submission package from a mortgage broker to a lender should be clear, complete, and compelling, enabling the lender to quickly assess the loan’s risk and viability.

Fractional Trust Deed Investing: Unlock High-Yield Opportunities

Looking for strong returns with a hands-off approach? Fractional trust deed investing offers private investors a secure, flexible way to participate in real estate lending—without the headaches of property management.

Executive Loan Summary: Setting Up a Professional One for Prospective Lenders

Procedures for the Initial Loan Inquiry: Earn Origination Fees

Best Practices for Procuring Brokers