For real estate investors, time is of the essence when seizing lucrative possibilities. Conventional bank loans are often too slow and inflexible. One solution is hard money financing.
Hard money loans are short-term, asset-based loans offered by private lenders rather than traditional mortgages. Ideal for investors needing fast funding, quick approval, and flexible terms, these lenders prioritize the property’s value over the borrower’s credit record. However, not all hard money lenders offer the same benefits.
Below, we examine the best hard money lenders of 2025 based on approval time, loan options, interest rates, service area, and customer experience, guiding you to the one that best matches your investment strategy.
1. Constlending – Best Overall Hard Money Lender
Constlending offers an unmatched combination of speed, flexibility, and competitive rates. They specialize in both residential and commercial investment properties with loan amounts ranging from $100,000 to $15 million.
With an industry-leading approval process, investors can secure funding in as little as 3 days. Their interest rates start at just 7.5%, among the lowest in the hard money sector.
What truly distinguishes them is their innovative approach to underwriting, focusing primarily on property value while maintaining reasonable requirements for borrowers.
They also offer a transparent fee structure and no prepayment penalties, which makes them the top choice for investors at all experience levels.
2. HouseMax Funding – Best for Nationwide Accessibility
HouseMax Funding has lending operations in all 50 states and Washington D.C., making it one of the most geographically available hard money lenders. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, the firm balances national reach with individualized service.
The process is quick and completely online, with investors able to prequalify in minutes. Loans close in most cases within 10 days, with sizes up to $9 million and rates beginning at 8%.
Both fix-and-flip and buy-and-hold strategies are supported by HouseMax, which is also commended for its responsive and informed customer support during the loan process.
3. Easy Street Capital – Best for Fast Closings
Easy Street Capital has some of the quickest closing times in the industry, with approvals in as few as 24 hours and funding frequently completed in 48 hours.
Lending in 42 states, they offer short-term bridge loans and fix-and-flip financing. They loan up to $10 million, and interest rates begin at about 8%.
Their no-appraisal policy eliminates one of the most frequent delays in real estate deals, making them a high priority for investors seeking auction or distressed properties with short timelines.
4. Express Capital Financing – Best for Product Variety
Express Capital Financing is unique for its wide variety of loan offerings and structuring flexibility.
They operate in 47 states plus Washington D.C. and provide financing for projects such as multifamily units, mixed-use developments, new construction, and others. Investors can prequalify online, and funding usually closes in 7 to 10 days.
The team works closely with borrowers to customize loan terms based on project requirements and expected ROI, making Express Capital a go-to partner for investors with diversified or complex portfolios.
5. RCN Capital – Best for Low Interest Rates
RCN Capital provides some of the lowest rates available in hard money lending, beginning at 10.75% interest. Offering lending in 45 states and Washington D.C., they provide financing for fix-and-flip transactions as well as long-term rental investments.
Borrowers may prequalify online, and the majority of loans are approved and closed in around 10 days. RCN lends up to $2.5 million and prides itself on a balanced underwriting approach, making it an investor favorite for those who want to reduce borrowing costs while maintaining a consistent funding process.
6. Jet Lending – Best for Customer Service
Jet Lending offers a high-touch, relationship-based lending experience that is particularly useful for newer investors or those with multiple projects in progress.
Operating in all 50 states and Washington D.C., they close loans in around 7 days. Unlike many digital-native lenders, Jet’s hands-on, consultative style includes helping with everything from structuring the loan to rehab budgeting.
Their engaged and responsive support staff keeps borrowers informed every step of the way, making Jet an excellent option for those who prefer clear communication and professional advice.
7. Park Place Finance – Best for First-Time Fix and Flippers
Park Place Finance is designed for new real estate investors and offers a simple and guiding process from beginning to end. Operating in 47 states and Washington D.C., they specialize in small to mid-range fix-and-flip projects.
Loans are generally approved in 5 to 7 days. The staff provides hands-on assistance with loan structuring, budgeting, and market advice to help new investors avoid costly errors. With transparent terms and reliable service, Park Place is a great fit for those entering the fix-and-flip market for the first time.
8. Kiavi – Best for Digital Lending Experience
Kiavi, previously LendingHome, is the industry leader in technology-based lending solutions. Operating in 33 states and Washington D.C., Kiavi offers loans of up to $3 million for fix-and-flip and rental property investment strategies.
Funding typically takes place within 10 days, and their platform facilitates a completely digital experience from application through closing. The highlight is that they will finance as much as 100% of rehab expenses, a welcome benefit among private lenders.
With a sleek design, friendly support, and a contemporary user interface, Kiavi is ideal for tech-savvy investors who value speed and efficiency.
Conclusion
Hard money loans are a vital tool for real estate investors who need fast, flexible capital. In a competitive market, the proper funding can be the difference between closing a deal or missing out.
Top lenders in 2025, such as Constlending, Kiavi, Park Place Finance, and Express Capital Financing, offer solutions for a range of investor needs, from first-time flippers to seasoned professionals.
When choosing a lender, focus on what matters most to your strategy—whether speed, nationwide access, low rates, or strong support. The right partner can help you grow your portfolio and stay ahead of the market.
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