Your Lending Questions—Answered
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Browse answers to frequently asked questions about our loan programs and process.
General Questions
Who are Equity Backers and what do you do?
Equity Backers are a private real estate lending firm specializing in fast, flexible capital for real estate investors. We offer a range of financing solutions—including fix and flip, bridge, rental, and ground-up construction loans—to support residential and commercial investment projects across the U.S.
What types of real estate loans do you offer?
We provide asset-based loan programs designed for investors, including:
Fix and Flip Loans
Bridge Loans
Rental Property Loans
New Construction Loans
Portfolio Loans
Each loan type is structured with speed, flexibility, and investor success in mind.
What types of properties do you finance?
We lend on a wide variety of non-owner-occupied investment properties, including:
Single-family homes (SFRs)
2–4 unit properties
Multifamily buildings (5+ units)
Mixed-use properties
Townhomes and condos
Select commercial properties (case-by-case)
Are you a hard money lender, mortgage broker, or something else?
Equity Backers is a direct private lender, offering in-house underwriting and streamlined approvals. Unlike traditional mortgage brokers, we focus on investment properties—not primary residences—and deliver faster access to capital with investor-friendly terms.
How is an Equity Backers investment loan different from a traditional mortgage?
Our loans are asset-based, meaning they focus more on the property’s value and potential than your personal income or credit history. Unlike residential mortgages, our process is faster, more flexible, and tailored specifically for real estate investors. We do not finance owner-occupied homes.
How is an investment loan different from a traditional mortgage?
Our investment loans are designed specifically for non-owner-occupied properties, such as flips, rentals, or ground-up construction. Unlike traditional mortgages, we focus on asset-based underwriting, speed, and flexibility.
Do you report to credit bureaus?
No, we do not report loans to credit bureaus. Our lending is based on property value and deal structure, not personal credit performance. This keeps your investment activity separate from your consumer credit profile.
How long does it take to close a loan?
Loan closing times vary by product and borrower readiness, but we can close in as little as 5–10 business days for most transactions—much faster than traditional lenders. Having your documents and title company ready helps speed up the process.
What states do you lend in?
We lend across most U.S. states. While availability may vary by loan product and local regulations, our team will review your deal and confirm eligibility in your target state during your consultation.
Do you have a seasoning requirement?
Generally, no. We do not have strict seasoning requirements for most of our programs, making it easier for investors to refinance or sell shortly after acquiring or renovating a property.
Is there a prepayment penalty?
This depends on the loan product. Our short-term loans (such as fix and flip or bridge loans) typically have no prepayment penalties. Some long-term rental loans may include prepayment terms, which will be clearly disclosed in your loan agreement.
Borrowers
What types of borrowers do you work with?
We work with a range of real estate investors—from first-time flippers to seasoned developers. Whether you’re acquiring a rental property, flipping homes, or building from the ground up, we’re here to help.
Do I need prior real estate investing experience to qualify?
No. While experience helps, we review each loan based on the strength of the project, property, and borrower profile. First-time investors are welcome.
Do you finance owner-occupied homes or primary residences?
No, Equity Backers provides loans strictly for non-owner-occupied investment properties. We do not finance primary residences.
Do you lend to entities like LLCs or corporations?
Yes. Most of our borrowers choose to purchase investment properties through LLCs or other business entities, and we support this structure.
Can I apply as an individual borrower?
Yes, although entity lending is more common, we also accept individual borrowers depending on the loan program.
What credit score do I need to qualify?
While requirements vary by product, most loans require a minimum FICO score of 660. Some programs may offer flexibility depending on the strength of the deal.
Can foreign nationals apply for funding?
Yes, we offer select loan programs tailored to foreign nationals investing in U.S. real estate.
Do you offer financing for vacant rental properties?
Yes, we provide rental loans for properties that are not currently leased, provided the project meets our underwriting criteria.
Is personal income verification required?
Many of our programs are asset-based, which means they focus more on the property’s cash flow and value than your personal income.
Can I qualify if I have past bankruptcies or foreclosures?
Generally, no. We do not have strict seasoning requirements for most of our programs, making it easier for investors to refinance or sell shortly after acquiring or renovating a property.
Is there a prepayment penalty?
Potentially. We look at the whole picture—including how long ago the event occurred, your current credit, and the details of the property and project.
Brokers
Do you partner with mortgage brokers or referral partners?
Yes, we welcome partnerships with brokers and real estate professionals. We offer competitive commissions and fast service.
How can brokers get started?
Simply fill out our Broker Registration form or contact our team to discuss partnership options.
Loan Eligibility & Requirements
Do you work with first-time real estate investors?
Yes, we work with both seasoned professionals and first-time investors who demonstrate strong project potential and a clear strategy.
What experience is required to qualify for a loan?
While experience helps, it’s not required for all loan types. We evaluate each borrower holistically, including credit, liquidity, and the investment opportunity.
Do you lend to foreign nationals?
Yes, foreign nationals can qualify with appropriate documentation and U.S.-based entities.
What credit score is needed to qualify?
Minimum credit score requirements vary by loan product, but typically start around 660.
Do I need to create a special entity like an LLC?
Yes, we require loans to be made to legal business entities such as LLCs or corporations—not individuals.
Do you require reserves or appraisals?
Most of our loan products require reserves and a third-party appraisal. Requirements will be clearly outlined during the underwriting process.
Is there a seasoning requirement?
We typically require some property or income seasoning for rental loans, but not for Fix & Flip or construction loans.
Property & Program Types
What types of loan products does Equity Backers offer?
We offer Fix & Flip loans, rental loans, bridge loans, new construction loans, and portfolio loans for real estate investors.
What kinds of properties do you finance?
We finance single-family homes, multifamily properties (2–20 units), and select mixed-use and commercial properties.
Do you finance owner-occupied homes, mobile homes, or co-ops?
No, our loans are exclusively for investment purposes. We do not finance personal residences, mobile/manufactured homes, or co-ops.
Do you lend on commercial or mixed-use properties?
Yes, select commercial and mixed-use properties may qualify under our bridge or rental programs.
Can I get a rental loan for a vacant property?
Yes, we can finance properties not currently leased, provided they meet our criteria for market rents and condition.
Do you fund repairs or rehab costs?
Yes, we finance 100% of approved renovation budgets with draws based on completed work.
Loan Process & Timeline
How do I get started with Equity Backers?
Start by submitting a quick loan inquiry online—one of our Account Executives will be in touch to guide you through the next steps. Prefer to speak with someone directly? Call our office during business hours, Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
How long does it take to get a term sheet?
Typically within 24–48 hours after your initial inquiry and documentation.
How fast can you close a loan?
Depending on the loan type, most loans close within 7–14 business days.
Can I use my own title or escrow company?
Yes, in most cases. We’re happy to coordinate with your preferred providers.
Can I self-manage my rental properties?
Yes. We do not require professional property management, but encourage best practices.
How are construction or renovation draws handled?
We offer streamlined draw processes with fast inspections and disbursement once work is confirmed.
Loan Terms & Financial Definitions
What is DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio)?
DSCR measures a property’s cash flow compared to its debt payments. It’s often used to qualify rental loans.
What is LTV (Loan-to-Value) and why is it important?
LTV compares the loan amount to the appraised value of the property. It helps determine risk and loan limits.
What is Yield Maintenance?
Yield Maintenance is a type of prepayment penalty used in long-term rental loans. It ensures investors are compensated if a loan is paid off early.
Do your loans amortize?
Rental loans are typically fully amortizing. Fix & Flip and bridge loans are interest-only.
Are your interest rates fixed or floating?
We offer both fixed and floating rates depending on the loan product.
What happens when my loan matures?
At maturity, any outstanding balance is due in full. We can assist with refinancing options if needed.
Do you offer non-recourse loan options?
Yes, on select rental portfolio and stabilized assets.
What are your insurance requirements?
You must maintain hazard and liability insurance throughout the life of the loan. Builder’s risk is required for construction.
What is the minimum and maximum loan amount?
Loan amounts range from $100,000 to $10 million+ depending on the program.
What is your maximum loan-to-value (LTV)?
We typically lend up to 75%–80% LTV depending on the asset type and borrower strength.
What’s the minimum number of properties for a rental portfolio loan?
Our portfolio loans typically require at least five rental units or properties.