November 21, 2022
QUOTE
“There are three constants in life... change, choice and principles.”
Stephen Covey
GET TO KNOW US
Property Valuation
As every investor knows, an accurate property valuation is vital to the success of a deal. Before we commit (or ask you to commit) to any deal, we perform a thorough valuation based on comps, then order an appraisal or BPO (Broker Price Opinion) to substantiate our findings. We review the rehab plans and budget. Last but not least, we visit the property to get a physical sense of its condition and of the neighborhood. The Investor’s Source has a solid track record of determining realistic property valuations that put the deal into the right perspective.
TIPS/INFO
Follow Up
A “no” to your offer could be a “yes” in a month. Follow up with private sellers who weren’t listing their properties on the MLS.
NEWS
Investing In a Volatile Economy: Is Real Estate Still an Option?
https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/investing-in-a-volatile-economy
September 29, 2022
QUOTE
“Wealth flows from energy and ideas.” William Feather
GET TO KNOW US
Credit Challenged
Once you get the property under contract, we’ll be happy to help confirm your projected value by doing a quick valuation in our office followed by a formal BPO or appraisal.
TIPS/INFO
Title Companies
Not all title companies are created equal. Although most local title companies are extremely professional and reliable, like any business, some are more efficient and dependable. It’s always a good idea to ask for references if you are part of the title selection process.
NEWS
3 Critical Questions to ask yourself before buying an Investment Property.
September 9, 2022
QUOTE
“In order to carry a positive action, we must develop a positive vision.” Dalai Lama
GET TO KNOW US
Borrower Qualification
How do you qualify for a loan with The Investor’s Source? Although the loan is based primarily on the strength of the deal, we do review your credit and your overall financial profile, experience as an investor, reserves, and income. In other words, a less than perfect credit score isn’t a deal breaker, as long as you can demonstrate financial integrity.
TIPS/INFO
Time is Money
Don’t get caught up in over-analyzing a property and potentially losing a deal. Have an “acid” formula to quickly asses its investment value. For instance, when some investors purchase a rental property, they’ll pay up to 100 times the rent and no more. That usually works out pretty well!
NEWS
How are Flippers faring in today’s Hot Market?
https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/flippers-2021-market
June 8, 2022
QUOTE
“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”
Henry Ford
GET TO KNOW US
Rental Property Funding
Our six-month Capital Preservation Loan allows you to take advantage of great deals quickly with little or no cash down, then refinance soon after with a traditional lender, again with little or no money down as the refinance is based on the new, higher value of the property!
TIPS/INFO
Power Team
Investor clubs are a great source for finding people to compose your power team – brokers, bankers, hard money/private lenders, title companies, insurance agents, contractors, money/credit partners and real estate agents. Every one of these providers will be crucial to your success as a real estate investor. While the temptation will be to be “out there” as quickly as possible to buy and rehab properties, spending the necessary time to get the right support team in place will pay large dividends down the road.
NEWS
With High Inflation, Should You Consider Passive Real Estate Investing Over Stock and Bonds?
REFERRAL
If you are looking for what we think is the best builder in the Woodland Park/Colorado Springs area, give 5 Star Home Construction a look. She builds beautiful homes.
https://www.5starhomeconstruction.com/home
"Need funding for your next deal? Call us at 970-635-2397. No deal too big, small or too far out of the box!"
May 18, 2022
QUOTE
“Do you want to know who you are? Don't ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you.”
Thomas Jefferson
GET TO KNOW US
Flexibility
As we’ve discovered, no two deals are alike – and when it comes to hard money funding, a “one size fits all” approach doesn’t always work. Thus, we’ve adopted a more flexible and user-friendly approach to structuring the terms to suit the individual deal, often making the seemingly impossible . . . . possible!
TIPS/INFO
Don’t over improve
Don’t be tempted to over-improve your property. Granite countertops, cherry cabinets and designer tile are desirable to many, but can be overkill if the other houses in the neighborhood are more modest.
NEWS
Why Smart Buyers Look For “Leftover Properties” in a Hot Housing Market
REFERRAL
If you are looking for what we think is the best builder in the Woodland Park/Colorado Springs area, give 5 Star Home Construction a look. She builds beautiful homes.
https://www.5starhomeconstruction.com/home
"Need funding for your next deal? Call us at 970-635-2397. No deal too big, small or too far out of the box!"
April 18, 2022
QUOTE
“Profit in business comes from repeat customers, customers that boast about your project or service, and that bring friends with them.”
W Edwards Deming
GET TO KNOW US
Quick Closings
“How fast can you close?” is a question we hear almost daily, as investors often need to close quickly to get their offers accepted. Once we receive your application, purchase contract, BPO or appraisal, and supporting documentation, we can usually close comfortably in 7 to 10 business days. Not too many banks can make that claim! We’ll do everything possible to get your deal closed on YOUR timetable!
TIPS/INFO
Private Money/Hard Money Lender
The difference between a private money lender and a hard money lender? A private lender lends his own money, while a hard money lender also raises capital from a variety of sources. Sometimes a private lender’s terms will be more favorable due to their lower overhead. The risk can be that a private lender may not have available funds when you need them, while a hard money lender has access to more capital and should be able to fund almost any deal. The last thing you want is to lose a deal when your private lender can’t perform. Bottom line: make sure whoever you choose to fund your deals, that the funds will be available at closing when you need them!
NEWS
5 Simple Ways to Reduce Your Tax Bill like a Real Estate Pro
REFERRAL
If you are looking for what we think is the best builder in the Woodland Park/Colorado Springs area, give 5 Star Home Construction a look. She builds beautiful homes.
https://www.5starhomeconstruction.com/home
March 29, 2022
QUOTE
"Teamwork builds trust and trust builds speed."
Russell Honroe
GET TO KNOW US
Property Valuation
Think you’ve found a hot deal? If you need help valuating a property prior to making an offer, we will be happy to provide you with the tax-assessed value of any property you’re interested in. Once you get the property under contract, we’ll be happy to help confirm your projected value by doing a quick valuation in our office followed by a formal BPO or appraisal.
REFERRAL
If you are looking for what we think is the best builder in the Woodland Park/Colorado Springs area, give 5 Star Home Construction a look. She builds beautiful homes.
https://www.5starhomeconstruction.com/home
TIPS/INFO
Reputation is Everything
Care, professionalism, ethics, attention to detail – these are some of the words our customers have used to describe us – and we strive every day to live up to the reputation we’ve worked hard to earn. Be impeccable in your business dealings – your reputation is your fortune!
NEWS
14 Questions to Ask Before you hire a General Contractor
March 8, 2022
QUOTE
"Creativity has always depended on openness and flexibility, so let us hope for more of both in the future.”
Siri Hustvedt
GET TO KNOW US
Preferred Borrower Rewards Program
We appreciate our borrowers’ loyalty and want to work with you for a long, long time. So, as a number of our borrowers have discovered, we’ll work with you on interest rate and points once we have a track record together. This can save you $$$ and make working together even more profitable for you!
TIPS/INFO
Front Door
When getting your investment property ready to rent or sell, make sure the front door projects a welcoming image. If the door looks dated, shabby, or just plain ugly, it’s worth the price of replacement. First impressions do matter!
NEWS
What is a Real Estate Market Analysis & How to Perform One
February 11, 2022
QUOTE
“Price is what you pay. Value is what you get
Warren Buffet
GET TO KNOW US
Proof of Funds
If you need a Proof of Funds letter in order to make an offer, we can provide it the same day, once we receive minimal documentation from you. We’ll do a quick in-house valuation of the property & run a deal analysis “lite” to confirm that this is a profitable deal.
TIPS/INFO
Underwriting
No need to go into panic mode when it’s time to qualify for a loan. Keep a file of financial information – an up-to-date financial statement, statements of your assets (IRA’s, 401K’s, stocks, etc.), 2 years tax returns, and any other documentation your underwriter will require.
NEWS
7 Paths for Newbies to start Investing in Mobile Home Parks
December 29, 2021
QUOTE
“We almost always have choices, and the better the choice, the more we will be in control of our lives.”
William Glasser
GET TO KNOW US
Support System
Fear and stepping out of your comfort zone are common obstacles that prevent many investors from becoming successful and achieving their goals. Having a “support system” can help mitigate your anxieties. The Investor’s Source LLC strives to provide the advice, encouragement, and care you may find yourself needing during critical decision-making times.
TIPS/INFO
Point of View
Every person looks at life through a “different lens,” which is why it’s important for every investor to have someone they can go to for a different perspective. Your advisors could include real estate attorneys, mortgage brokers, or other real estate investors that you trust to give you an honest opinion.
NEWS
14 Common Apartment Repairs Every Landlord Should Prep For
November 11, 2021
QUOTE
“A good financial plan is a road map that shows us exactly how the choices we make today will affect our future.”
Alexa Van Todd
GET TO KNOW US
Private Money vs. Hard Money
First of all, is there a difference? Yes, there is. Though terms are often used interchangeably, private money lenders lend their own funds, whereas hard money lenders lend both their own funds and funds they raise. Private lenders typically are a bit less expensive than hard money lenders due to their low overhead. Does it pay to go directly to a private lender and cut out the hard money lender? Not necessarily. Going directly to a private lender could save you some money, but they may or may not have funds available when you need them, whereas a hard money lender has greater resources to draw upon. Also, hard money lenders are real estate professionals, with the experience necessary to avoid serious documentation, closing and title issues. The Investor's Source, LLC not only works with a large pool of lenders, we are experienced in all aspects of the closing process, cutting out much of the time, risk and stress that can occur in any real estate deal.
TIPS/INFO
Power Team
Investor clubs are a great source for finding people to compose your power team – brokers, bankers, hard money/private lenders, title companies, insurance agents, contractors, money/credit partners and real estate agents. Every one of these providers will be crucial to your success as a real estate investor. While the temptation will be to be “out there” as quickly as possible to buy and rehab properties, spending the necessary time to get the right support team in place will pay large dividends down the road.
NEWS
Housewreck! Here’s Why Failure Is NEVER the End of Your Real Estate Journey
October 4, 2021
QUOTE
"Every Exit is an entry to somewhere else."
Tom Stoppard
GET TO KNOW US
Rental Properties Right for you?
Rental properties are great for those who are looking to build wealth slowly and steadily over a long time span. Being able to understand the math behind a rental property purchase is key to determining whether the property will be an asset to your portfolio, or a drain on your account. The Investor’s Source LLC will provide a comprehensive deal analysis before you take the plunge.
TIPS/INFO
Reputation is Everything
Care, professionalism, ethics, attention to detail – these are some of the words our customers have used to describe us – and we strive every day to live up to the reputation we’ve worked hard to earn. Be impeccable in your business dealings – your reputation is your fortune!
NEWS
Avoid Paying Unnecessary Fees by Lowering Your Closing Costs- Here’s How
August 6, 2021
QUOTE
"Every day bring new choices"
Martha Beck
GET TO KNOW US
Rental Properties Right for you?
Rental properties are great for those who are looking to build wealth slowly and steadily over a long time span. Being able to understand the math behind a rental property purchase is key to determining whether the property will be an asset to your portfolio, or a drain on your account. The Investor’s Source LLC will provide a comprehensive deal analysis before you take the plunge.
TIPS/INFO
Know your Market
Check your comps. How long are houses sitting on the market in your area? If the average home is taking 6 - 12 months to sell, make sure to factor in additional carrying costs into your profitability analysis or consider keeping the property for a rental instead of flipping it – or simply pursuing deals in more active markets.
NEWS
Investors: Don’t Negotiate Until You Know the Home’s Condition
https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/inspection-negotiation-informed-decisions
June 21, 2021
QUOTE
“Wealth flows from energy and ideas.”
William Feather
GET TO KNOW US
Investor Friendly
The Investor’s Source refers to itself as “investor friendly,” and if you’ve been in the business for any length of time, you know how important that is. We understand the challenges you face as an investor, and the role timing plays in your deals. You want a lender who is responsive to your needs and doesn't make you jump through excessive hoops to get your deal done . . . .and get it done quickly! We aim to conditionally pre-approve your loan within 48 hours, and then work hard to get it approved not long after that, get the title company everything they need, and to always keep you in the loop so you know where you stand every step of the way.
TIPS/INFO
Functionality over Style
When fixing up your rental properties, always choose functionality over style. Most tenants just want a comfortable, well-maintained place to spend their time and live their lives. Functional doesn’t have to mean boring – nice paint colors and inexpensive but attractive light fixtures can make a place look inviting, without over-extending your budget
NEWS
How to Analyze a Short-Term Rental – from Cleaning to Cash Flow
June 7, 2021
QUOTE
“Success is where preparation and opportunity meet.” Bobby Unser
GET TO KNOW US
Deal Analysis
Sometimes a deal can look promising up front, but when you run the numbers . . . the wheels come off. That’s why we perform a full analysis on every prospective deal, taking into account all the things that can impact profitability--from property taxes to carrying costs. We also let you know how much cash you’ll need to bring to closing. If a deal is not going to be profitable for you, we wouldn’t be interested in funding it, even if it would make money for us. We’ll let you know right away if we cannot fund so you’re free to pursue the next opportunity!
TIPS/INFO
Listen to your Lender
If your lender says “no” to funding your deal, they may have good reason. At The Investor’s Source if our deal analysis demonstrates that the deal will not be profitable for you, the investor – even though it may be for us - we’ll encourage you to redirect your energy toward a better opportunity. To obtain funding for a deal, our policy is that all deals must be win-win, so if you won’t make money, we won’t do the deal. We’ve had many investors thank us profusely for steering them away from deals which could have hurt their wallets – a lot!
NEWS
Cash for Keys: A controversial (But Effective!) Alternative to Eviction
https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/cash-for-keys
May 19, 2021
QUOTE
"Teamwork builds trust and trust builds speed." Russell Honore
GET TO KNOW US
Rehab Funds
Along with the funding of your purchase, The Investor’s Source will fund up to 100% of the repairs on your rental or fix-and-flip property. The funds are placed in escrow and disbursed to you as you complete each phase. We make sure from the start that you have the money you’ll need to work your magic!
TIPS/INFO
Vandal Protection
Rehabbing can leave a property vacant for several months, leaving the property vulnerable to vandalism. Minimize your chances for vandalism or theft by keeping doors and windows locked, covering windows with sheets or drapes, and keeping lights on at night.
NEWS
Build a Six-Figure Student Housing Portfolio in Just Eight Steps
May 12, 2021
Here is a quick and interesting read that was shared with us regarding the recent surge in lumber prices. We thought you might find it helpful as well.
May 5, 2021
QUOTE
“Profit in business comes from repeat customers, customers that boast about your project or service, and that bring friends with them.” Edwards Deming
GET TO KNOW US
Property Valuation
As every investor knows, an accurate property valuation is vital to the success of a deal. Before we commit (or ask you to commit) to any deal, we perform a thorough valuation based on comps, then order an appraisal or BPO (Broker Price Opinion) to substantiate our findings. We review the rehab plans and budget. Last but not least, we visit the property to get a physical sense of its condition and of the neighborhood. The Investor’s Source has a solid track record of determining realistic property valuations that put the deal into the right perspective.
TIPS/INFO
Curb Appeal
Never underestimate curb appeal when getting ready to flip your property. Power-washing the house, trimming the shrubs, and replacing a battered mailbox with a new one are just a few inexpensive ways to freshen the home’s appearance.
NEWS
Why You Should Start Your Investing Journey With Single-Family Rentals
April 20, 2021
Colorado real estate markets are steaming hot! We realize that can make it even harder to find good deals as inventory gets snatched up almost before it’s listed. But it also means great opportunities to add more inventory by building from the ground up or flipping houses if you can find those hidden gems.
WITH THAT IN MIND, WE HAVE A NEW AND EXCITING PROGRAM TO TELL YOU ABOUT
The Investor’s Source wants to help. It’s simple, the more you build, the more you can squeeze us for better terms and streamlined underwriting. We’re happy to be squeezed! So, here’s the deal:
- Commit to 3 new builds or flips per year & start building or flipping
- After your 1stdeal – rates drop as to as low as 2.5 points and 10% interest
- LTV rises to up to 75% of the after-build value
- We’ll even provide Down Payment Assistance to keep cash needed low, low, low
In other words, build toward your future dreams with Investor’s Source Frequent Builder/Flipper program. So, what are you waiting for!
Contact us today
970-635-2397 or [email protected].
April 12, 2021
QUOTE
“Do you want to know who you are? Don't ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you.” Thomas Jefferson
GET TO KNOW US
Making the Impossible Happen
Quick closings are one of the primary reasons an investor seeks a hard money loan. At The Investor’s Source we pride ourselves on going the extra mile to “make the impossible happen.” All we ask is that you do your part to expedite the process– provide us with the documentation we need (in a timely and organized fashion), don’t overburden us with information we don’t need, be available to answer questions, then trust us to do the rest.
TIPS/INFO
Expand your Horizons
When looking for deals, keep your eye on areas with expanding potential. Fountain, Colorado City, Grand Junction, Greeley, and other smaller markets can be goldmines, and much less competitive.
NEWS
8 Traits of a Top-Tier Tenant – And How to Spot Them
https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/good-tenant-traits
April 4, 2021
QUOTE
“It's easy to make a buck. It's a lot tougher to make a difference.” Tom Brokaw
GET TO KNOW US
Funding the Fix
Along with the funding of your purchase, The Investor’s Source will fund up to 100% of the repairs on your rental or fix-and-flip property. The funds are placed in escrow and disbursed to you as you complete each phase. We make sure from the start that you have the money you’ll need to work your magic!
TIPS/INFO
Title Companies
Not all title companies are created equal. Although most local title companies are extremely professional and reliable, like any business, some are more efficient and dependable. It’s always a good idea to ask for references if you are part of the title selection process.
NEWS
Single Family vs. Multifamily Rentals: Which Investments Is Right for You?
February 4, 2021
QUOTE
"Creativity has always depended on openness and flexibility, so let us hope for more of both in the future.” Siri Hustvedt
GET TO KNOW US
Exit Strategy
When assembling the details of a deal, The Investor’s Source LLC always asks the investor to define their exit strategy. Experienced investors know that things can go wrong, and nobody wants to find themselves stuck or stranded. Consider options in advance, like renting, wholesaling to another real estate investor, or leasing the property.
TIPS/INFO
Underwriting
No need to go into panic mode when it’s time to qualify for a loan. Keep a file of financial information – an up-to-date financial statement, statements of your assets (IRA’s, 401K’s, stocks, etc.), 2 years tax returns, and any other documentation your underwriter will require.
NEWS
5 Reasons why Section 8 Tenants Are the Best Renters
https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/section-8-tenants-pros
February 1, 2021
QUOTE
"The new year stands before us, like a chapter in a book, waiting to be written. We can help write that story by setting goals." Melodie Beattie
GET TO KNOW US
Skin in the Game
Although not always mandatory, most private lenders prefer to see some “skin in the game” – the willingness to put some of your own money into the deal and assume some of the financial risk. This goes a long way towards convincing the lender of your commitment. Our goal, at The Investor’s Source, is to keep as much money in your pocket as possible, while at the same time making the loan attractive to our lenders. Though it would be great to provide 100% financing to our Borrowers on all of their deals, the reality is that putting some of your own money into a deal can sometimes be that little something extra needed to make the loan work for everyone
RECENTLY CLOSED DEALS
The Investor’s Source recently closed a $3MM loan on an assisted living facility in Pueblo CO. The facility will be getting an overhaul to get it ready for residents. We are excited to help our borrower add this great property to his existing portfolio of assisted living facilities.
TIPS/INFO
Front Door
When getting your investment property ready to rent or sell, make sure the front door projects a welcoming image. If the door looks dated, shabby, or just plain ugly, it’s worth the price of replacement. First impressions do matter!
NEWS
The Ultimate Guide to Quickly Estimating a Property’s ARV (After Repair Value)
January 21, 2021
QUOTE
“Price is what you pay. Value is what you get.” Warren Buffet
GET TO KNOW US
Proof of Funds
If you need a Proof of Funds letter in order to make an offer, we can provide it the same day, once we receive minimal documentation from you. We’ll do a quick in-house valuation of the property & run a deal analysis “lite” to confirm that this is a profitable deal.
TIPS/INFO
Private Money vs. Hard Money Lender
The difference between a private money lender and a hard money lender? A private lender lends his own money, while a hard money lender also raises capital from a variety of sources. Sometimes a private lender’s terms will be more favorable due to their lower overhead. The risk can be that a private lender may not have available funds when you need them, while a hard money lender has access to more capital and should be able to fund almost any deal. The last thing you want is to lose a deal when your private lender can’t perform. Bottom line: make sure whoever you choose to fund your deals, that the funds will be available at closing when you need them!
NEWS
9 Ways to Save Money You Have Probably Never Tried
January 7, 2021
A Word from the President of The Investor’s Source
"Anita, I asked my Operations Manager, as I came into the office on the first workday of 2021 'did I just dream that?". "No", she informed me, "2020 actually happened"
Yes, 2020 was a challenging year, even in the hard money business. Uncertainty is always challenging and it's hard to argue with these being the most uncertain times we've ever lived through. But we made it through 2020 (and my heart goes out to all who have lost loved ones - including myself). We made it by persevering and doing what we do best as businesspeople in this country - keeping the flames of optimism burning knowing that better days are ahead, working really hard and staying present always to handle what comes our way.
2020 was a challenging year at Investor's Source too. We dealt with more challenging loans than ever before but used each of them as a springboard for our company's growth and education. Learning lessons can sometimes be expensive but looking at them as investments, they can help make us that much stronger and wiser and most importantly, be of greater service to our clients.
We are looking forward, with great anticipation, to 2021. We have money to lend, deals in our pipeline, and fantastic investors on both the borrower and lender side of the equation who are making an impact in their communities and helping to keep our economy strong. We are still lending all over Colorado and Wyoming with the widest array of loans in the business - for flips, new construction, land development, commercial buildings, refinances, flash cash and whatever else you need that makes sense. We are still your commonsense lender who will get your deals funded!
Good luck to you too in 2021 and let us know how we can help you with your financing needs.
December 11, 2020
“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.” Henry Ford
GET TO KNOW US
IS Wholesale Deal Network
Want the inside scoop on the latest hot deals from some of Colorado’s most active wholesalers? Go to our webpage and sign up now to become a part of the IS Wholesale Deal Network. You’ll receive advance notifications on some of the best deals around and The Investor’s Source will be right there with you to provide the funding if needed!
TIPS/INFO
Don’t Over-Improve
Don’t be tempted to over-improve your property. Granite countertops, cherry cabinets and designer tile are desirable to many, but can be overkill if the other houses in the neighborhood are more modest.
NEWS
The Definitive Guide to Tenant Screening
Investor Source Hard Money Lender in Colorado
