Private Lenders' Podcast

AI For Private Lenders - #277 In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, we dive into one of the biggest topics in business and tech today: Artificial Intelligence—and how private lenders are actually using it right now to save time, improve workflows, and enhance decision-making. Fresh off a recent mastermind meeting in Maryland, Jason and Chris break down real-world ways AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude are being leveraged in lending businesses today—not as replacements for expertise, but as time-saving, productivity-boosting assistants. 🔍 What we cover in this episode: Using ChatGPT for SEO and content creation (with human editing!) Turning video transcripts into blog posts and emails Researching foreclosure laws and legal terms across multiple states Creating amortization spreadsheets with AI How AI is helping streamline communication, from email drafts to inbound call handling Experiments with AI-powered phone agents and CRM integrations Why the human touch still matters in private lending Whether you’re a lender, investor, or small business owner looking to better understand how AI can support your operations, this episode will give you tactical, real-life examples—not hype. 🎧 Listen, learn, and walk away with practical ways to integrate AI into your lending business today. ✅ 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

No Two Lenders Are Identical - #276 In this episode, "No Two Lenders Are Identical," we're exploring how private lending can be tailored to fit your personal goals and lifestyle. From deal types to capital sources, portfolio size, and whether to stay active or go passive, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to private lending. Join us as we discuss: ✅ How to craft your lending business to match your goals ✅ Different deal types (fix & flip, ground-up, commercial, etc.) ✅ Capital sources – self-funding, investor capital, or institutional ✅ When to grow your team and the role of software ✅ Why some lenders love commercial while others stick to residential ✅ The importance of knowing yourself and your comfort zone We’re also excited to share that we’ve partnered with https://joinlendr.com/ – a game-changing platform for lenders. Mention the Private Lenders Podcast to get $250 off your onboarding fee! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to fine-tune your operation, this episode is packed with insights to help you build the lending business that’s right for you. 👉 Listen now and subscribe for weekly insights into private lending, deal structuring, and business growth! ✅ 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  

Mortgage Company VS Investment Vehicle - #275 🎙️ In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, we dive deep into a topic that hits home for every real estate investor and private lender: Mortgage Company vs. Investment Vehicle. Join hosts Chris Haddon and Jason Balin as they share their personal journey from traditional mortgage lending to running their own private lending operation. They lay it all out—how working in the mortgage business taught them the basics of credit, real estate, and finance, but also left them feeling like just another cog in the wheel, constantly chasing deal after deal with little control over the process or the bottom line. Discover how they transitioned into the world of private lending, built Hard Money Bankers, and uncovered the massive difference between selling loans and owning an investment vehicle. Hear the eye-opening moment when they realized that even their investors—who simply put their money to work—were making more money than them! 💡 In this episode, you’ll hear about: ✅ The drawbacks of the mortgage lending business—volume-driven, high-stress, and low control ✅ The private lending advantage—high-profit margins, complete control, and scalable servicing income ✅ How private lending became a powerful investment vehicle for themselves, their families, and trusted capital partners ✅ The difference between just doing deals and actually building a wealth-generating business If you’ve ever felt stuck in a transactional job or wondered how to turn lending into long-term wealth, this episode is for you. Tune in and learn how to create your own investment vehicle! ✅ 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 Had a Default Exit Fall Through - #274 In this episode, we break down a real-time default scenario that’s still unfolding—and getting messier by the day. From missed payments and incomplete renovations to a borrower secretly moving in and filing bankruptcy, this loan has had every complication imaginable. We walk you through how we structured the original deal, what went wrong, and why our exit strategy—selling to an investor buyer—completely fell apart at the 11th hour. If you're a private lender, these situations will happen. Understanding how to manage a default from a business—not just legal—standpoint is critical. We cover: ✔️ Why defaults are inevitable (and how to prepare) ✔️ Lessons learned from a 3-year problem loan in Maryland ✔️ How bankruptcy filings complicate workouts ✔️ Strategies like Deed in Lieu, discounted payoffs, and foreclosure ✔️ Why borrower cooperation is everything Whether you’re new to lending or a seasoned investor, this episode will give you real-world insight into navigating distressed loans and finding profitable exits. 👇 Let us know in the comments: How would YOU handle this situation? ✅ 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

Money is Attracted to Speed - #273 In this episode of the Private Lenders Podcast, they break down one of the most powerful—and often overlooked—concepts in private lending: Speed closes deals. From rapid lead follow-up to issuing real, actionable loan terms and hitting settlement deadlines, the ability to move fast can make or break your lending business. Whether you're working with BiggerPockets leads, buying online traffic, or simply responding to borrower inquiries—the lender who acts first often wins. Tune in as we discuss: ✅ Why lightning-fast follow-up is critical in a competitive market ✅ How to automate your first-touch response and stand out ✅ The advantage of being fast, local, and easy ✅ Real-world examples of institutional lenders blowing deals ✅ The importance of decisiveness in underwriting and funding ✅ How controlling capital (and expectations) gives you an edge ✅ Why missed closing dates destroy trust—and how to avoid them ✅ Selling your strengths without undercutting your value If you're a private lender, hard money lender, or thinking about entering the space, this episode will help you streamline your process and increase your close rate—because money really is attracted to speed. ✅ 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  

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