Real estate investing can be a highly lucrative venture, but one of the biggest challenges investors face is securing reliable funding. Traditional banks often have slow approval processes and strict lending criteria, which can be a roadblock—especially for investors looking to close quickly or fund unconventional deals. That’s where private lenders come in.
Private lenders offer more flexible financing options, faster funding, and deal structures tailored to investors’ needs. Whether you’re flipping houses, acquiring rental properties, or developing commercial spaces, choosing the right private lender is critical to your success. Here’s a detailed guide to the best private lenders for real estate investors, including what to look for when selecting one.
What Makes a Good Private Lender?
Before diving into specific lenders, it’s important to understand the characteristics of a reputable and investor-friendly private lender:
- Speed of funding – Time is crucial in real estate deals. Private lenders should be able to close deals quickly.
- Flexibility – Loan terms should suit your investment strategy, whether it’s fix-and-flip, buy-and-hold, or construction.
- Transparent terms – There should be no hidden fees or ambiguous language in loan agreements.
- Experience with real estate investors – Lenders familiar with the industry can structure deals more advantageously.
- Loan-to-value (LTV) ratios – Higher LTV ratios allow you to borrow more with less out-of-pocket capital.
Now let’s look at some of the top private lenders for real estate investors in 2025.
1. Lima One Capital
Best for: Fix-and-flip and rental property loans
Lima One Capital is a leading private lender that specializes in loans for real estate investors. They offer a range of products, including fix-and-flip loans, new construction loans, and rental property financing.
- Loan amounts: $75,000 to $3 million+
- LTV: Up to 90% of purchase price, 100% of rehab costs
- Loan terms: 12–24 months (fix-and-flip), 30 years (rental)
- Speed: Close in as little as 10 days
Lima One is known for its investor-first approach and competitive rates, making it ideal for seasoned and first-time investors alike.
2. Kiavi (formerly LendingHome)
Best for: New investors and tech-savvy borrowers
Kiavi is a data-driven private lender that offers an easy online application process and fast approvals. It’s one of the top choices for fix-and-flip loans and bridge financing.
- Loan amounts: $100,000 to $1.5 million
- LTV: Up to 90% of purchase, 75% ARV (after-repair value)
- Terms: 12 months (fix-and-flip), 30 years (rental)
- Tech advantage: Streamlined platform with real-time tracking
Kiavi’s user-friendly platform and efficient underwriting process make it an excellent option for tech-forward investors.
3. RCN Capital
Best for: A wide range of property types and investor experience levels
RCN Capital offers short-term and long-term financing for residential and commercial properties. Their team is experienced in working with both novice and experienced investors.
- Loan amounts: $50,000 to $10 million
- LTV: Up to 85% purchase, 70% ARV
- Terms: 12–36 months (short-term), up to 30 years (rental)
- Specialties: Single-family, multi-family, and mixed-use properties
Their flexibility and wide loan offerings make RCN a solid choice for portfolio growth.
4. Patch of Land
Best for: Short-term bridge loans
Patch of Land specializes in short-term real estate loans and offers a marketplace lending platform that connects investors with accredited lenders.
- Loan amounts: $100,000 to $5 million
- LTV: Up to 85%
- Terms: 6 to 24 months
- Close time: Within 7–10 days
Their investor-friendly terms and fast approval make them ideal for time-sensitive deals like auction purchases and wholesale flips.
5. Fund That Flip
Best for: Renovation and construction-focused investors
As the name suggests, Fund That Flip focuses on fix-and-flip and renovation projects. Their platform is efficient, and they offer educational content for growing investors.
- Loan amounts: $100,000 to $5 million+
- LTV: Up to 90% of purchase, 100% of rehab
- Terms: 12 months, with extensions available
- Highlights: Transparent fees, draws released quickly
Fund That Flip supports investors throughout the project lifecycle, from acquisition to sale.
6. Civic Financial Services
Best for: Experienced investors and volume flippers
Civic specializes in loans for experienced real estate investors and offers personalized lending solutions, including bridge loans and rental portfolio loans.
- Loan amounts: $250,000 to $10 million
- LTV: Up to 85%
- Terms: Short-term bridge and 30-year rental options
- Strength: Excellent for repeat investors and larger portfolios
Their concierge-style service and scalability make them an attractive option for professional investors managing multiple properties.
How to Choose the Right Private Lender
Here are some steps to help you narrow down your options:
- Define your strategy – Are you flipping, renting, or building? Choose a lender that specializes in that strategy.
- Compare rates and fees – Look beyond the interest rate. Origination fees, prepayment penalties, and servicing costs can add up.
- Ask for references – Speak with other investors who’ve worked with the lender.
- Understand their process – Some lenders are more automated, while others are hands-on.
- Start small – If you’re unsure, begin with a smaller project before scaling up with a new lender.
Final Thoughts
Private lenders play a vital role in the success of real estate investors. Whether you’re acquiring your first rental property or flipping your tenth house, the right lender can help you fund deals quickly, maximize your ROI, and grow your real estate business with less stress.
By considering lenders like Lima One, Kiavi, and RCN Capital—and aligning their offerings with your investment goals—you can build a reliable financing foundation that supports long-term success. Take the time to compare your options, read the fine print, and build relationships with lenders who understand your strategy.
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