7 Questions To See If You Can Fund Their Deal #272

In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, Jason breaks down a proven origination scripting process used to evaluate thousands of private lending deals—quickly, efficiently, and conversationally. Whether you're new to private lending or looking to streamline your borrower screening process, this episode gives you the exact framework to determine in minutes whether you can fund a deal or not.

Learn the 7 key qualifying questions that every lender should ask—and how to weave them naturally into conversation without sounding like you’re reading from a checklist.

🔑 In this episode, you'll learn:

• The 7 essential questions to ask to qualify a borrower quickly

• How to build rapport while still taking control of the call

• How to identify red flags in construction costs, purchase price, or ARV

• What the borrower’s answers reveal about experience, credit, and capital

• How to screen for financial readiness (even when they don’t say it outright)

• Why taking control early avoids time-wasting storytelling

• The importance of focusing on your criteria—not just any borrower who wants a loan

💡 Pro Tip:
Stop trying to make every deal work. Just because a borrower accepts your terms doesn’t mean you should fund their project. Learn how to filter fast and move on when it’s not a fit.

Whether you’re handling origination yourself or training a team, this episode gives you a repeatable method to qualify deals fast—while staying professional and conversational.

✅ Please like, subscribe, and share! ✅

Are you a new or experienced private lender or hard money lender? Join Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers as they draw from their extensive experience running a successful hard money lending company since 2007. Tune in weekly with episodes related to all aspects of private lending. From discovering lucrative loan opportunities to securing private capital, effectively managing your loan portfolio, handling defaults, and much more, we've got you covered.

✔️ Tune in now and watch the full video podcast at www.privatelenderspodcast.com

✔️If you enjoyed this podcast we would appreciate a positive review... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-lenders-podcast/id1476153070

✔️Make sure to check out the #1 Online Community For New and Experienced Private and Hard Money Lenders.. Create your account at www.hardmoneymastermind.com

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL Get updates or reach out to Get updates on our Social Media Profiles!

✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardmoneymastermind/

✅ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardmoneymastermind

Eddie Wilson Founder of AAPL & Leader in Private Lending - #271

In this special episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, we sit down with a true industry titan—Eddie Wilson, founder of the American Association of Private Lenders (AAPL) and an accomplished entrepreneur who has bought and sold nearly 100 companies.

Eddie shares how he got started in private lending, why he believed in the power of private capital during the 2008 housing crash, and how AAPL was formed to bring legitimacy, community, and representation to this growing industry. From navigating Wall Street interest to representing lenders on Capitol Hill, Eddie unpacks the evolution of private lending and where it’s heading.

📌 Topics covered

✅ How he’s acquiring Class A multifamily properties at $0.80 on the dollar

✅ Lessons from flipping 9 hotels and hundreds of houses

✅ The real reason syndications are failing—and where he’s finding opportunity

✅ How he uses community building to fuel business acquisition

✅ Why portfolio loans can unlock dead equity

✅ His “Empire Operating System” to manage 27+ companies

✅ The philanthropic mission that drives it all If you're in private lending, real estate investing, or looking to scale your business, this episode is packed with insight you won’t want to miss.

✅ Please like, subscribe, and share! ✅

Are you a new or experienced private lender or hard money lender? Join Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers as they draw from their extensive experience running a successful hard money lending company since 2007. Tune in weekly with episodes related to all aspects of private lending. From discovering lucrative loan opportunities to securing private capital, effectively managing your loan portfolio, handling defaults, and much more, we've got you covered.

✔️ Tune in now and watch the full video podcast at www.privatelenderspodcast.com

✔️If you enjoyed this podcast we would appreciate a positive review... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-lenders-podcast/id1476153070

✔️Make sure to check out the #1 Online Community For New and Experienced Private and Hard Money Lenders.. Create your account at www.hardmoneymastermind.com

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL Get updates or reach out to Get updates on our Social Media Profiles!

✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardmoneymastermind/

✅ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardmoneymastermind

How to Truly Know the Value of your Collateral - #270

Knowing the true value of your collateral is one of the most critical parts of being a successful private or hard money lender. In this episode, Jason and Chris break down exactly how they determine property values beyond just appraisals and third-party reports.

🧱 Think of it like a pyramid: at the top are must-do practices like site visits, MLS comps, and getting real feedback from local investors. Below that are the supporting tools—Zillow, appraisals, BPOs, tax records—that can help paint a clearer picture, but should never be relied on alone.

🏡 Whether you’re lending $100K of your own capital or managing investor funds, this episode dives into the due diligence process, borrower analysis, and valuation strategy you need to protect your money and make smart lending decisions.

📍 Plus: Get a preview of our upcoming Mastermind Live Event happening in Maryland, June 4–5. Spots are limited—check out HardMoneyMastermind.com for details.

👉 Topics covered:

• Why third-party valuations aren't enough

• The "pyramid" of valuation strategies

• How to assess a borrower's ability to execute

• Real-world tips for underwriting properties

• Why it's okay to lower your LTV when needed

• Tools we use: MLS, tax records, comps, land records, and more

If you're serious about growing your lending business the right way—this is an episode you can't afford to miss.

✅ Please like, subscribe, and share! ✅

Are you a new or experienced private lender or hard money lender? Join Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers as they draw from their extensive experience running a successful hard money lending company since 2007. Tune in weekly with episodes related to all aspects of private lending. From discovering lucrative loan opportunities to securing private capital, effectively managing your loan portfolio, handling defaults, and much more, we've got you covered.

✔️ Tune in now and watch the full video podcast at www.privatelenderspodcast.com

✔️If you enjoyed this podcast we would appreciate a positive review... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-lenders-podcast/id1476153070

✔️Make sure to check out the #1 Online Community For New and Experienced Private and Hard Money Lenders.. Create your account at www.hardmoneymastermind.com

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL Get updates or reach out to Get updates on our Social Media Profiles!

✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardmoneymastermind/

✅ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardmoneymastermind

5 Pros You Need to Succeed as a Hard Money Lender - #269

In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, we're diving into the 5 essential professionals every hard money lender needs on their dream team to thrive in the private lending space. These aren’t your in-house employees—we’re talking about key external service providers who can make or break your business.

From specialized attorneys and experienced insurance brokers to savvy CPAs who truly understand real estate finance, host Jason Balan (from Hard Money Bankers) shares who you need in your corner, why they matter, and how the right partnerships can protect your investments and boost your bottom line.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• The different types of attorneys every private lender should know

• Why having the right insurance agent is non-negotiable

• How to structure your accounting setup for long-term growth

• What to look for in a CPA who understands lending and real estate

• Why strong vendor relationships help you move faster and smarter

Whether you're just starting out in private lending or looking to scale your hard money operation, this episode breaks down real-world advice from lenders who’ve been in the game for years.

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more insider tips on hard money lending, private financing, and growing your real estate business.

✅ Please like, subscribe, and share! ✅

Are you a new or experienced private lender or hard money lender? Join Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers as they draw from their extensive experience running a successful hard money lending company since 2007. Tune in weekly with episodes related to all aspects of private lending. From discovering lucrative loan opportunities to securing private capital, effectively managing your loan portfolio, handling defaults, and much more, we've got you covered.

✔️ Tune in now and watch the full video podcast at www.privatelenderspodcast.com

✔️If you enjoyed this podcast we would appreciate a positive review... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-lenders-podcast/id1476153070

✔️Make sure to check out the #1 Online Community For New and Experienced Private and Hard Money Lenders.. Create your account at www.hardmoneymastermind.com

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL Get updates or reach out to Get updates on our Social Media Profiles!

✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardmoneymastermind/

✅ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardmoneymastermind

Working with Repeat Borrowers - #268

In this episode, we're diving deep into one of the most powerful—and often underappreciated—aspects of private lending: working with repeat borrowers.

Whether you’re a seasoned hard money lender or just getting started, learning how to build long-term relationships with trusted investors can transform your business. Jason breaks down the huge ROI potential of working with repeat clients, how to think about customer acquisition cost vs. lifetime value, and why residential fix & flip borrowers often present more recurring opportunities than commercial ones.

🔍 What we cover:

• Why repeat borrowers are key to scaling your private lending business

• How to calculate lifetime value of a borrower

• Common do’s and don’ts when nurturing borrower relationships

• Why cutting fees might hurt more than help

• How to balance your loan portfolio between new and repeat clients

• Field tips: the value of actually showing up at your borrowers’ properties

Over 50% of our deals each month are with repeat borrowers—and we think that’s the sweet spot. Tune in to hear real stories, lessons learned, and actionable strategies to create lasting borrower relationships that drive consistent, profitable deal flow.

📈 Whether you're doing 2 deals a month or 20, this episode is packed with insights to help you grow smart and sustainably.

✅ Please like, subscribe, and share! ✅

Are you a new or experienced private lender or hard money lender? Join Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers as they draw from their extensive experience running a successful hard money lending company since 2007. Tune in weekly with episodes related to all aspects of private lending. From discovering lucrative loan opportunities to securing private capital, effectively managing your loan portfolio, handling defaults, and much more, we've got you covered.

✔️ Tune in now and watch the full video podcast at www.privatelenderspodcast.com

✔️If you enjoyed this podcast we would appreciate a positive review... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-lenders-podcast/id1476153070

✔️Make sure to check out the #1 Online Community For New and Experienced Private and Hard Money Lenders.. Create your account at www.hardmoneymastermind.com

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL Get updates or reach out to Get updates on our Social Media Profiles!

✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardmoneymastermind/

✅ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardmoneymastermind

Our 1st Annual Summer Event! (learn about it here) - #267

Ready to take your private lending business to the next level? In this episode, Chris and Jason break down all the exciting details of our first-ever in-person summer event exclusively for members of HardMoneyMastermind.com!

Whether you're deploying $2M or scaling toward $20M+, this event is built to support your growth with strategies, systems, and connections that actually move the needle.

🎯 What to Expect:

• Live mastermind sessions with other experienced lenders

• Expert-led presentations on marketing, deal structuring, capital raising & investor relations

• Insights on growing from solo lender to full-scale operation

• Real conversations around defaults, risk, and what really works

• Opportunities to collaborate, network, and even co-fund deals

💡 As Jason and Chris share: this isn’t a giant conference — it’s a high-value, intimate gathering focused on helping serious private lenders scale smarter and faster.

📅 The event is happening this June, and we’ve already got top-tier lenders locked in. Want in?

👉 Click “Live Events” at HardMoneyMastermind.com to learn more and schedule a quick call with our associate Dave Bauer: Live Events

Let’s take this thing to the next level — together.

✅ Please like, subscribe, and share! ✅

Are you a new or experienced private lender or hard money lender? Join Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers as they draw from their extensive experience running a successful hard money lending company since 2007. Tune in weekly with episodes related to all aspects of private lending. From discovering lucrative loan opportunities to securing private capital, effectively managing your loan portfolio, handling defaults, and much more, we've got you covered.

✔️ Tune in now and watch the full video podcast at www.privatelenderspodcast.com

✔️If you enjoyed this podcast we would appreciate a positive review... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-lenders-podcast/id1476153070

✔️Make sure to check out the #1 Online Community For New and Experienced Private and Hard Money Lenders.. Create your account at www.hardmoneymastermind.com

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL Get updates or reach out to Get updates on our Social Media Profiles!

✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardmoneymastermind/

✅ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardmoneymastermind

We Answer the Groups Top Questions - Mastermind Q&A - #266

In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, Jason and Chris dive into some of the most frequently asked questions from the Hard Money Mastermind community.

✅ We kick things off with an in-depth conversation on insurance for private lenders—from basic liability coverage to force-placed policies and commercial general liability options. We break down what’s essential, what’s scalable, and what might be overkill depending on the size of your portfolio.

💼 Then, we shift gears to discuss building your personal lender account, even when you’re still working with co-lenders. We share the strategies we’ve used to consistently grow our own accounts—automated deposits, smart distributions, and how to view this business as your long-term investment vehicle.

📊 Lastly, we touch on a question about long-term debt on your balance sheet and whether or not it makes sense for private lenders to offer longer-term financing options.

If you're in the lending game or just getting started, this episode is packed with practical tips, real-world experience, and behind-the-scenes insights from running a hard money lending business.

✅ Please like, subscribe, and share! ✅

Are you a new or experienced private lender or hard money lender? Join Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers as they draw from their extensive experience running a successful hard money lending company since 2007. Tune in weekly with episodes related to all aspects of private lending. From discovering lucrative loan opportunities to securing private capital, effectively managing your loan portfolio, handling defaults, and much more, we've got you covered.

✔️ Tune in now and watch the full video podcast at www.privatelenderspodcast.com

✔️If you enjoyed this podcast we would appreciate a positive review... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-lenders-podcast/id1476153070

✔️Make sure to check out the #1 Online Community For New and Experienced Private and Hard Money Lenders.. Create your account at www.hardmoneymastermind.com

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL Get updates or reach out to Get updates on our Social Media Profiles!

✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardmoneymastermind/

✅ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardmoneymastermind

3 Types of Marketing Emails - #265

If you’ve ever thought, “I know I should be emailing my list, but I have no idea what to send…” — this episode is for you. Email marketing is the lowest hanging fruit when it comes to generating leads in the private lending space, and today we’re giving you the exact playbook we use at Hard Money Bankers.

In this episode, Jason and Chris break down the 3 types of email broadcasts that consistently drive deal flow:

1️⃣ Deal Spotlight – Showcase recent (or hypothetical) deals to build trust and credibility
2️⃣ Content Share – Deliver value by sharing educational content your audience cares about
3️⃣ Call to Action – Straightforward asks that drive borrowers to reach out

You’ll hear real-life examples, best practices, and why consistency (we're talking weekly emails minimum!) is the key to staying top of mind with your database — even if it takes 10 years to close a deal with someone on your list!

🔥 Plus: how to repurpose email content for social, how e-commerce brands leverage email to drive 40%+ of their revenue, and tips for building your authority as a lender.

✅ Please like, subscribe, and share! ✅

Are you a new or experienced private lender or hard money lender? Join Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers as they draw from their extensive experience running a successful hard money lending company since 2007. Tune in weekly with episodes related to all aspects of private lending. From discovering lucrative loan opportunities to securing private capital, effectively managing your loan portfolio, handling defaults, and much more, we've got you covered.

✔️ Tune in now and watch the full video podcast at www.privatelenderspodcast.com

✔️If you enjoyed this podcast we would appreciate a positive review... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-lenders-podcast/id1476153070

✔️Make sure to check out the #1 Online Community For New and Experienced Private and Hard Money Lenders.. Create your account at www.hardmoneymastermind.com

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL Get updates or reach out to Get updates on our Social Media Profiles!

✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardmoneymastermind/

✅ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardmoneymastermind