Private Lenders' Podcast

Hard Money Bankers - Jason Balin and Chris Haddon

The #1 Podcast On Private Money Lending. Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers deep dive into their experiences with private money lending after lending money on almost 3,000 projects to real estate investors and commercial property owners

  1. 18H AGO

    The Exact Loan Documents We Use as Private Lenders

    Wanna work with us? Schedule a call here: https://go.oncehub.com/bookacall The Exact Loan Documents We Use as Private Lenders A bad loan document set can turn a good deal into a nightmare. In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, Jason from Hard Money Bankers breaks down the exact loan documents we use as private lenders—refined through funding 4,000+ loans since 2007. You'll learn the purpose of core private lending documents, including the promissory note, mortgage vs. deed of trust, personal guarantees, assignments of rents, entity resolutions, and supporting docs used in real-world lending. Jason also explains why the Closing Instructions Letter is one of the most important documents in any loan file and how proper title review and attorney involvement protect lenders from costly mistakes. This episode is a must-watch for private lenders, hard money lenders, and real estate investors who want to protect their capital and avoid preventable losses. ✅ 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

    20 min
  2. 4D AGO

    The Team You Need at $5M, $15M, and $25M+ (Most Get This Wrong)

    Wanna work with us? Schedule a call here: https://go.oncehub.com/bookacall The Team You Need at $5M, $15M, and $25M+ (Most Get This Wrong) - #320 What does the right team actually look like as your private lending business grows? 🤔 In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, Chris and Jason break down the exact team structure private and hard money lenders need at key portfolio milestones — $5M, $15M, and $25M+ outstanding — and why so many lenders get this wrong. If you've ever asked: Who should my first hire be? When do I need loan servicing software? What roles should owners vs. employees handle? How do I scale without bloating overhead? …this episode is a must-listen. What You'll Learn: How to structure your team at $0–$5M, $6M–$15M, and $25M+ portfolios The difference between front-end vs. back-end roles (and why clarity matters) When to hire a loan processor, controller, or portfolio manager Why owners should not be doing loan servicing keystrokes When to implement loan servicing software (hint: sooner than you think) How a lean team can scale from $25M to $50M+ without major overhead increases Additional roles to consider at scale: inspectors, business development, and marketing Chris and Jason also share real-world lessons from growing a portfolio from the ground up — including mistakes, efficiencies gained over time, and how the right systems make growth easier, not harder. ✅ 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

    17 min
  3. JAN 13

    The Biggest Mistakes Lenders Make When Scaling with Loan Originators

    Wanna work with us? Schedule a call here: https://go.oncehub.com/bookacall In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, we break down the biggest mistakes lenders make when scaling with loan originators—and why adding originators the wrong way can stall growth and drain profits. After 20+ years in private lending, we've tested nearly every structure imaginable: commission-only originators, W2 sales reps, internal leads, outsourced brokers, and full partnership models. Some worked. Many failed. In this episode, we cover: Why most commission-only originator models fail Internal leads vs. self-sourced deals—what actually works The dangers of high base salaries and underqualified hires Why intake-only or admin pre-screening hurts conversions Two proven originator structures that consistently scale A compensation "hack" using inspections, draws, and valuation fees When partnership models make sense—and when they don't Why brokering loans outside your lending box is usually a mistake If you're a private or hard money lender looking to scale beyond a one-person operation, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and build a sustainable 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

    29 min
  4. JAN 9

    Kevin Kim's 2026 Predictions Might Surprise You

    Kevin Kim's 2026 Predictions Might Surprise You - #318 Chris and Jason welcome back Kevin Kim, Partner at Fortra Law (formerly Geraci LLP), for a timely conversation on what's ahead for private lending, hard money lending, and DSCR loans in 2026. Kevin shares insights from working with lenders of all sizes and breaks down how excess capital, increased competition, and securitization are reshaping the industry—and why some lenders are thriving while others are struggling. 🔑 Topics discussed: Kevin Kim's 2026 predictions for private lenders Why lenders should stick to their core lending thesis Rising defaults, buybacks, and underwriting risk The real risks behind DSCR lending Appraisal challenges and why local market knowledge matters How local lenders can compete against national platforms This episode is a must-watch for private lenders, hard money lenders, real estate investors, and fund managers looking to navigate a rapidly changing market. 🎧 Listen now to hear why 2026 could be a defining year for private lending. ✅ 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

    55 min
  5. JAN 5

    3 Ways to Increase Revenue in 2026 - #317

    3 Ways to Increase Revenue in 2026 - #317 Looking to make more money in your private or hard money lending business in 2026? In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, hosts Jason and Chris from Hard Money Bankers break down three proven ways to increase revenue right now—without chasing more leads just for the sake of it. This episode focuses on practical, real-world strategies that experienced lenders are using today to boost profitability, improve loan conversion, and maximize returns from both new and existing borrowers. 🔑 In This Episode, You'll Learn: ✅ Why most lenders don't have a lead problem—they have a follow-up and conversion problem ✅ How prioritizing bottom-of-the-funnel borrowers can dramatically increase revenue ✅ The role of CRM automation, text, and email follow-up in closing more deals ✅ Why lenders leave money on the table by not collecting late fees, extension fees, and default interest ✅ How to charge appropriately for risk while protecting your capital and investor returns ✅ How to be opportunistic by expanding beyond fix-and-flip loans into refis, bridge loans, and commercial deals ✅ The importance of balancing 50% new borrowers and 50% repeat clients ✅ How to quote deals confidently—even when you're unsure—using smart verbal underwriting strategies Whether you're a newer private lender or managing a large portfolio, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you increase revenue, improve discipline, and build a more profitable lending business in 2026 and beyond. ✅ 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

    27 min
  6. 12/30/2025

    This is common sense but no hard money lenders are doing this (Convert Leads into Loans)

    This is common sense but no hard money lenders are doing this (Convert Leads into Loans) In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, Jason breaks down the proven strategies hard money and private lenders must use to convert more leads into funded loans in today's competitive lending market. Generating leads costs time and money — but losing deals to institutional lenders or competitors because of poor follow-up, weak systems, or bad communication is completely avoidable. In this training-style episode, you'll learn the exact loan conversion framework used every day inside a successful hard money lending business. 🔑 What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why traditional loan applications are killing your conversion rates How calendar appointments dramatically increase borrower show-up rates The two-funnel CRM system every hard money lender should be using How to follow up without spamming (and still get callbacks) Why "next steps" are critical after every borrower conversation The power of price anchoring in hard money loan negotiations Why you should never negotiate loan terms over email Simple CRM management tips that actually get used (not ignored) If you're a hard money lender, private lender, or real estate investor looking to fund more deals without increasing ad spend, this episode will change how you handle leads forever. 📌 Whether you're lending on fix & flips, rentals, or commercial properties, these strategies will help you: ✔ Convert more inquiries into real conversations ✔ Build trust with real estate investors ✔ Stop losing deals to bigger lenders ✔ Close more loans consistently 💬 Have questions about lead conversion, CRM setup, or borrower follow-up? Drop them in the comments — they'll be answered directly. ✅ 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

    23 min
  7. 12/26/2025

    We Didn't Plan to Share These… 3 Stories From 2025

    We Didn't Plan to Share These… 3 Stories From 2025 - #316 Wrapping up 2025, hosts Jason and Chris of Hard Money Bankers share three real, unfiltered stories from the trenches of private and hard money lending—the kind of situations every lender eventually faces, but few talk about openly. From a multi-lender fraud and title insurance claim that took 18 months to resolve, to managing long-term commercial borrowers with trapped equity, to structuring creative low-LTV loans for high-net-worth investors, this episode highlights the unpredictable realities of private lending and why slow, disciplined growth and strong collateral fundamentals matter more than ever. If you're a private lender, hard money lender, or real estate investor, these stories offer valuable lessons on risk management, borrower character, title insurance, extensions, defaults, and protecting your capital over the long term. In this episode, you'll learn: How a borrower fraudulently closed multiple private loans on the same property What really happens during a title insurance claim and why coverage matters Why low LTV lending can save deals when things go sideways The risks of long-term commercial bridge lending How to handle extensions, refinances, and principal reductions strategically Lessons from real private lending deals that went off script 🎧 Whether you're new to private lending or managing a seasoned loan portfolio, this episode offers real-world insight you won't find in theory or textbooks. ✅ 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

    29 min
  8. 12/23/2025

    5 Things To Focus On In 2026 For Private Lenders

    5 Things To Focus On In 2026 For Private Lenders - #315 In today's competitive and uncertain lending environment, private and hard money lenders need to be more strategic than ever. In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, hosts Jason and Chris break down the five most important things private lenders should focus on in 2026 to stay profitable, reduce risk, and continue growing their loan portfolios. With increased competition from institutional lenders, shifting real estate markets, and changing investor expectations, this episode covers practical strategies lenders can apply immediately—whether you're running a small portfolio or scaling a full-time lending operation. 🎯 In this episode, you'll learn: Why outbound lead generation and borrower follow-up will be critical in 2026 How to focus on conversion—not just lead volume—in a crowded lending market The importance of truly understanding local market values and underwriting conservatively Why proper systems and loan servicing software are no longer optional How private lenders can raise capital more effectively as investors seek alternatives to stocks and crypto Why creative and non-conforming deals may offer the biggest opportunities Bonus: How mastermind groups can accelerate growth and sharpen decision-making Whether you're a new private lender or a seasoned operator, this episode provides real-world insights from nearly two decades of lending experience and lessons learned across multiple market cycles. 👉 Learn more about upcoming events and the private lending community at Hard Money Mastermind. 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

    23 min
4.8
out of 5
66 Ratings

About

The #1 Podcast On Private Money Lending. Jason Balin and Chris Haddon from Hard Money Bankers deep dive into their experiences with private money lending after lending money on almost 3,000 projects to real estate investors and commercial property owners

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