If you're a real estate investor in South Orange County, hard money loans are a great resource for acquiring properties in Laguna Beach, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, San Clemente, Laguna Niguel, Coto De Caza, Ladera Ranch and Mission Viejo.
Hard Money Loan Programs Available in South Orange County
First Capital Trust Deeds (FCTD) originates eight types of loans on properties in South Orange County. Since 2013, FCTD has secured loans for a variety of different purposes and uses.
These programs include:

Why Do Orange County Investors Go To FCTD for Private Money Loans?
FCTD simply knows hard money lending. In 2022, we originated over 500 loans for real estate investors in 23 states.
FCTD recognizes that real estate investors often encounter complex circumstances that can pose challenges to financing. We carefully evaluate the details and nuances of each individual loan application. Over the years, FCTD has skillfully navigated numerous financing scenarios involving hundreds of borrowers — securing loans through both hard money and institutional lenders. Our vast experience and well-established network of lenders enable us to identify the most suitable funding for your project, even in the face of complicated financial situations.
FCTD is a leading provider of hard money financing for real estate investors, ensuring a seamless and efficient financing experience.
What Sets First Capital Apart


What Experience Does FCTD Have With Different Financing Scenarios?
FCTD has worked through numerous financing scenarios with borrowers, real estate agents, attorneys, 1031 accommodators, trustees and dozens of other interested parties to the transaction. Additionally, FCTD has originated multiple loans over the years for the following types of scenarios:

Why Do South Orange County Investors Use Hard Money Loans?
Hard money loans offer great benefits to individuals seeking to purchase, refinance or obtain a cash-out refinance. Investors can particularly benefit from:
- Accelerated Closing Process: Hard money loans are known for their expedited closing times, crucial for individuals facing tight deadlines such as a five-day offer period, or unexpected setbacks in their bank financing. FCTD has even closed loans in an impressive 24-hour window in urgent cases, although the standard closing time frame typically ranges from 5 to 14 days.
- Flexible Credit Score Requirements: Although hard money lenders will evaluate an applicant's credit score for their payment history, it doesn’t play a decisive role in the loan approval process. However, lenders do take it into account. For those planning to refinance, hard money lenders will ensure that applicants have a sufficient credit profile to qualify them for long-term bank financing to repay construction or bridge loans. While minor credit issues are okay, a pattern of delinquencies and loan defaults will be a problem.
- Financing Options for Non-Stabilized and Rehabilitation Properties: Properties that are in disrepair, vacant or exhibit high vacancy rates often fail to qualify for traditional bank financing. On the other hand, hard money bridge loans provide investors with the means to acquire such properties to renovate or stabilize through long-term tenancies.

What is the Pricing on Hard Money Loans?
Hard money loans in South Orange County typically have origination fees ranging from 2-4 points, along with interest rates varying between 8.99% and 12.00%. These loans may have durations spanning from as short as three months to as long as 15 years, particularly for challenging-to-finance properties such as cannabis facilities, which often face a lack of institutional financing options.
Additional expenses for hard money loans include preparing and examining loan documents, which can range from $1,095 for a lender or broker to $3,500 for legal representation. It’s essential to note that unlike conventional mortgages, hard money loans don’t have a fixed pricing structure. The pricing is contingent upon the borrower's specific circumstances, property, or any unique situations that must be addressed to finalize the loan.
For more pricing information, be sure to read our Hard Money Loan Pricing, Interest Rates, Fees, Closing Costs.

