Definition
Hard Money Loan
A hard money loan is short-term, asset-based financing investors use to buy and renovate properties — approved on the property's numbers rather than the borrower's income, at high rates (commonly 9–13%+) with points up front, for terms measured in months.
Hard money is why 'cash buyer' sometimes means 'fast-closing financed buyer': the loan funds in days and has no retail underwriting, so from the seller's side it behaves like cash. Legitimate buyers using hard money can still close in two to three weeks.
For sellers, the distinction matters only for certainty — a genuinely cash buyer has no lender who can say no. Proof of funds tells you which kind of buyer you have; either can be fine when the deposit is real and the timeline is written.
Where this matters
More terms
Definitions first. Offers when you're ready.
Tell us about the property once and vetted cash buyers respond with competing written offers — free, no obligation.
Questions first? Read the FAQ →