Why Your Bank Said No (And Why That's Not the End of the Road)

You found the deal. The numbers work. You're ready to move — and then your bank tells you it's going to take 45 days. Or worse, they come back with a flat no.

If you've been through this, you're not alone. It's one of the most common stories I hear from borrowers who end up working with us at Val-Chris Investments.

Here's the thing most people don't realize: banks aren't set up to move fast on real estate. They have layers of underwriting, committee approvals, and rigid guidelines that don't account for deals that need to close in two weeks. That doesn't mean the deal is bad — it means the funding source is wrong.

Private money lending works differently. We look at the property and the equity, not just your tax returns from the last three years. If the collateral makes sense, we can fund quickly — sometimes in a matter of days.

That speed matters. I've seen borrowers lose solid deals simply because they couldn't close on time. The seller moved on. The opportunity disappeared.

A few situations where private money tends to be the right fit:

- You need to close fast and can't wait on bank timelines
- The property doesn't fit a conventional lender's box — maybe it needs work, or it's a unique asset type
- You need bridge financing while you line up long-term funding
- Your financial picture is strong but doesn't check every traditional box

Private lending isn't for every deal, and it's not the cheapest capital out there. But when timing or flexibility matters more than rate, it can be the difference between getting the deal done and watching it go to someone else.

If you've got a property in California and want to see if private money makes sense, give us a call. We've been doing this since 1975 — we'll give you a straight answer.

When Timing Won't Wait: Three Scenarios Where a Bridge Loan Saved the Deal

Most people don't know what a bridge loan is until they need one. Then they need it yesterday.

In California real estate, timing is everything. You find the perfect property. You're selling one house and buying another. A contingency collapses at the worst possible moment. In each of these situations, the traditional mortgage timeline — 30, 45, sometimes 60 days — simply doesn't work. That's where a bridge loan earns its name.

A bridge loan is a short-term loan that gets you from where you are to where you need to be. At Val-Chris, we underwrite them against the equity in your current property, the one you're acquiring, or sometimes both. Rates are higher than conventional financing. That's the trade-off for speed. The term is typically six to twenty-four months — just long enough to get you across.

Let me walk through three scenarios where a bridge loan is the right tool.

1. Buying before selling. You've found your next home, but your current house is still on the market. Traditional lenders will hammer you on debt-to-income ratios and tell you to wait. A bridge loan lets you tap the equity in the old place to close on the new one. Once the old house sells, the bridge gets paid off. Clean and simple.

2. A commercial refinance trapped in bank limbo. Commercial loans can take months. When a balloon payment is coming due and your bank is dragging its feet, a bridge loan buys runway to refinance on your timeline, not theirs. I've watched borrowers avoid some real pain by moving to a bridge while the bank figured itself out.

3. Acquiring an off-market opportunity. Investors bring us deals where the seller needs to close in ten days or the whole thing walks. We can underwrite, fund, and close that fast. A conventional lender simply can't. By the time they've ordered the appraisal, your opportunity has evaporated.

Here's what I tell every borrower: a bridge loan is not a permanent solution. It's a bridge. The key is knowing your exit before you take the loan — the sale of another property, a conventional refinance, a payoff from another source. If you can articulate the exit clearly, a bridge loan is a powerful tool. If you can't, it's a problem waiting to happen.

We've been writing bridge loans on California real estate since 1975. If you've got a timing problem, call us before it becomes a crisis.

The Questions I Ask Before I Fund a Deal

You've probably seen the headlines lately. Private lending has taken some heat in the news, and rightly so in certain cases. When investor money gets mismanaged, everyone in the industry feels it. Trust is fragile.

So let me walk you through what actually happens when a loan request hits my desk.

First question: what is the property really worth? Not what Zillow says, not what the borrower paid five years ago — what a disciplined appraisal backed up by current comps tells us. We stick to conservative loan-to-value ratios. On a first trust deed, that usually means lending at 65% of value or less. That cushion isn't a nice-to-have. It's the whole game. If something goes sideways, the equity in the property is what protects the investor's principal.

Second question: who is the borrower, and what is the exit? I want to know how this loan gets paid back. A fix-and-flip borrower has one exit. A bridge loan on a commercial property has another. If the exit story doesn't hold up under questioning, the deal doesn't make it to funding.

Third question: is there anything unusual in the file? Title issues. Tax liens. Recent transfers that look odd. Prior litigation on the property. Permit problems.

Fifty-one years in, Val-Chris has funded a lot of loans. We've also passed on a lot. The "no" deals matter just as much as the "yes" deals — maybe more.

Here's the thing about trust deed investing. The returns are real. Monthly income, short durations, tangible real estate collateral. But those returns only matter if the underwriting is sound.

When you invest with us, you're not handing your money to a black box. You see the property. You see the appraisal, the title work, the LTV. You decide.

That transparency has been the model since 1975.

You Don't Have to Give Up Your 3% Mortgage to Access Your Equity

A lot of California homeowners are sitting on a problem. They've got
significant equity built up in their property — maybe six figures
worth — but they're also holding a first mortgage at 3% or 3.5% from
2020 or 2021. Refinancing that loan today means trading it in for
something close to 7%. Nobody wants to do that.

So what do you do when you need capital and your equity is locked up?

A second trust deed might be the answer.

Here's the basic idea. Your first mortgage stays exactly where it is.
We put a second lien on the property behind it. You get access to the
equity you've built without touching the first loan. The rate on the
second will be higher — that's just how it works — but the math often
makes a lot more sense than blowing up a low-rate first mortgage just
to get at your equity.

We've been placing these loans for close to 50 years. Second trust
deeds aren't new, but they're seeing a real resurgence right now. We
see it in our deal flow every month. Property owners needing to cover
a business expense, fund a renovation, bridge a gap, pay off a tax
lien — they're coming to us because the bank won't do a second and
they can't stomach refinancing.

What do you need to qualify? Primarily, it comes down to the equity in
your property. We look at the combined loan-to-value — your first
mortgage balance plus what we're lending, divided by the property
value. Strong equity protects both you and the investor behind the
loan.

We can also move fast. A bank isn't going to get a second done in two
weeks. We can.

If you're sitting on equity and feeling like your hands are tied, they
probably aren't. Give me a call and let's talk through what's
possible.

Jeff LaMotte is President of Val-Chris Investments, a California
private money lender since 1975

Val-Chris Annual Broker Mixer!

A big Thank You to everyone who joined us last week for our Val-Chris Annual Broker Mixer! 

The food, cocktails, and conversations were all fantastic. It was great catching up with familiar faces and finally meeting some of you in person after so many phone calls.

Nothing beats connecting face-to-face over good wine and great appetizers. Here’s to closing even more deals together before year end, as there’s still time to make this an amazing year for private money loans! 

Jeff LaMotte with Val-Chris Loan Officer Jack Staurskiy

Hard Money Loan Versus Private Money Loan - What is the difference?

I often hear the question - What is the difference between a hard money loan and a private money loan? 

Personally, I think they are pretty close to the same thing, but the difference is usually associated with where the loan comes from. 

Hard money loans are from a licensed company that is in the business of offering loans. The capital for those loans is almost always provided by individual investors looking to invest their money. Most hard money lending companies act as a broker or intermediary between the person borrowing the money and the investor lending the money. The company is basically the company that sources loans for the investor to review and the invest. In some cases, the hard money lending company uses its own money to fund the loans and then sells the loan off to a private investor later. 

A private money loan is usually looked at as a loan where you borrow from an individual, licensed or unlicensed, who may or may not be in the business of lending money. For example, you need cash for your business, so you call your wealthy uncle to lend you the money in exchange for a certain rate of return or fee. 

However, if you look at the source of money in each situation, they are the same. Whether you go to a hard money lending company or your wealthy uncle, the funds are sourced from a private individual looking to lend their money. 

This is why the terms Hard Money Loans and Private Money Loans are so interchangeable. While you can argue there are differences, the source of capital remains the same.

Construction and Rehab Loans: Are You Using a Pre-Construction Budget Review? (PCR)

Rehab and construction loans are a huge part of lending. They are excellent products that offer significant value to borrowers across the nation. When done right, it provides the capital and opportunity for regular people to buy properties and add value to them. Often called “flippers”, they find properties that need some “love” and bring them back to life. Many times, and hopefully most of the time, for a profit. 

Another side of the same coin would be construction lending. Construction and rehab loans can be similar, though in my mind, they are very different. While rehab loans start with a house that’s already built but needs upgrades, construction loans typically start from scratch and are built up from the ground up.

How are they different from “normal” loans? 

Most loans use what is called “as-is” value. That is the current value with no upgrades or changes. When you are doing a rehab loan, you typically base the loan on the “After Repair Value” or ARV. How do you get the ARV? Typically, through an appraisal, however, the appraiser will need to know what you plan on doing with the property. Usually, the borrower or lender will provide a list of work along with the amount they will spend on upgrades. Then the appraiser can go and find comparable properties with similar upgrades or finishes. 

Before the work begins

This is where it gets tricky. To properly start the process, you need a contractor bid and a lender ready to lend. As a lender, you have to know that the contractor’s list of work and the order of stages make sense and can be relied on. 


One way to make this happen is by using a PCR, or Pre-Construction Budget Review. A 3rd part fund control company typically does these before you fund the loan. They will review the budget, do a search on the contractor for outstanding liens or lawsuits, and then give you a summary based on their review. Sometimes the review will come back with recommended changes to the budget or draw schedule before you fund the loan. The few times I’ve done these types of loans, the person doing the PCR is a contractor and they will give their 3rd party input on whether or not the budget makes sense.

Not everyone’s cup of tea 

My Input? I don’t like these types of loans. It’s not that they aren’t good loans, but they require a significant amount of work. Some lenders specialize in this type of lending, and it’s literally all they do every day. Whether they have years of experience in this type of lending or are a licensed contractor who has transitioned into lending, they possess the expertise to manage these loans effectively. 

I joke that the “real work” on rehab or construction loans doesn’t actually start until after the loan funds. Obviously, there is truth behind most jokes, and frankly, I prefer to have the work done once the loan funds. 

In summary, rehab and construction loans are a great tool and can be a fantastic product when done by the right lender. Tools like PCR and a third-party fund control company can offer another layer of protection and expertise to ensure the transaction is as smooth as possible. 

Reach out if you have any questions on this type of lending, and I’d be happy to discuss.


Lawsuit Filed Against AB 130!

Summary: On September 8, 2025, a coalition of mortgage lenders and trade groups filed suit in federal court challenging the constitutionality of California’s new law, AB 130. The case, California Mortgage Association v. Bonta, was filed by attorney T. Robert Finlay.

The lawsuit argues that while AB 130 was intended to address so-called “zombie mortgages” (old junior liens that resurface years later), the law goes far beyond that purpose. According to the complaint, the statute “casts a much wider net” that severely limits or eliminates the enforceability of nearly all subordinate liens on residential property in California.

Finlay contends AB 130 violates multiple constitutional protections, including the Contract Clause, Due Process, Takings, and Equal Protection provisions, and is also preempted by federal laws such as the Truth in Lending Act and RESPA. Critics warn the law could effectively wipe out second mortgages in the state, while supporters argue it provides needed protections against abusive foreclosure practices.

What does this mean?

This means that a lawsuit was officially filed to challenge the language within AB 130. The hope, and in my opinion, the correct outcome will result in a massive re-work of the bill with the guidance and input from the mortgage industry.

The fact that such a poorly written bill was rushed into law with essentially no input from industry professionals is both shocking and surprising.

While there is no word yet on an injunction, we will keep our fingers crossed for some relief from what we consider an unconstitutional law.

New Law - AB 130 - Does this kill junior lending?

Brief Summary of the new law:

California’s new law, AB 130, has major implications for lenders making subordinate loans. The law creates new technical requirements that, if not met, can render a junior lien unenforceable—even for something as small as missing a monthly mortgage statement. This effectively prevents many lenders from foreclosing, even while a senior lienholder may still proceed with foreclosure.

Several major trade groups (CMA, CMBA, CBA, UTA, and the Credit Union League), with support from law firms, are preparing to challenge the law in court and seek an injunction. They are also seeking additional plaintiffs who have been directly impacted, such as lenders who can’t foreclose due to the new rules or those who have decided to stop making subordinate loans in California altogether.

Will this kill junior loans?

No, I don’t think it will. Honestly, after reading through the law, it sounds scarier than it really is. That’s not to say it’s well-written or addresses the correct items, but at least it doesn’t kill Jr. lending.

The new requirements surround the servicing of the loan. So, assuming you have a legitimate loan servicer who will file the new required certification, you should be fine.

However, that doesn’t mean this won’t delay things. The new law is ripe for abuse by ambulance-chasing attorneys and borrowers who like to play games.

While a lawsuit against the new law is pending, we will continue to provide Jr liens as a product for our clients. We have made and will continue to make adjustments to our loan terms to ensure that we continue to provide a favorable product for both our investors and borrowers.

What Next?

We hope the pending lawsuit against CA will prompt the state to recognize that the new law is poorly written and doesn’t effectively address the issue it was intended to solve. It was pushed through too quickly, and its impact extends much farther than intended. We hope that the lawsuit will provide an injunction while the industry attorneys fight the law.

Business purpose loan updates

As many of you know, private lenders primarily do what is considered to be “business purpose loans”. What is a Business Purpose Loan? A business-purpose loan is a type of financing where the borrowed funds are used primarily for business-related activities rather than personal, family, or household purposes. We operate under the business purpose exemption since it enables us to provide financing with more flexible terms to borrowers who need quick access to capital for business ventures, real estate investments, or other commercial activities. Relying on this exemption ensures that we remain compliant with applicable laws while meeting the specific needs of your business clients.

 

I have been asked many times what we do to prove that our loans are being used for business purposes, so I wanted to elaborate on the process and disclosures we use. 

 

  1. Purpose letter. We get a letter (typically handwritten or on business letterhead) from our borrower on every transaction where they explain what the loan proceeds will be used for. 

  2. We get a “certificate of business purpose” where they describe in bullet point format how the loan proceeds will be broken down to further provide insight in to how the funds will be used. 

  3. We review the loan proceed breakdown at the end of the transaction to be sure a majority of the loan will be used for business purposes. 

  4. We have an additional business purpose affidavit called “Affidavit Regarding Business/Commercial/Investment Loan Purpose” that we have the borrower sign with loan documents AND NOTARIZE to verify completion and understanding. 

  5. Our loan application was specifically built for business purpose loans with additional language added to make it clear we don’t do consumer purpose loans. 

 

These five points ensure that our file is well-documented and clearly for business purposes. 

American Association of Private Lenders

Jeff LaMotte will attend the American Association of Private Lenders (AAPL) annual conference on Monday, November 11th in Las Vegas, NV. The American Association of Private Lenders is the oldest and largest national association for the private lending industry. Each year, they host the nation’s largest private lending event featuring the right mix of comprehensive education and networking.

Nevada Update!

Val-Chris Investments Now Lending in Nevada's Major Markets

I am thrilled to announce that I am officially lending in parts of Nevada! With our Nevada license active, we are expanding our trusted lending services to new horizons. Our focus will be on the major metropolitan areas and their surrounding suburbs, where we see tremendous opportunities for growth and investment.

Our expansion into Nevada means that we can now offer our specialized business purpose loans to a broader range of clients. We provide both 1st and 2nd deeds of trust across all property types, including residential, commercial, industrial, and mixed-use properties. Whether you're an investor looking to capitalize on Nevada's booming real estate market or a business owner seeking financing solutions, we're here to help.

Why Choose me for loans in Nevada?

  • Expertise in Business Purpose Loans: We specialize exclusively in business purpose lending, ensuring you receive knowledgeable and professional service tailored to your investment needs.

  • Flexible Loan Options: With both first and second deeds of trust available, we offer flexible financing solutions to help you leverage your investments effectively.

  • All Property Types Supported: Our loans are not limited to specific property types. We are equipped to finance a wide range of properties, providing you with more opportunities.

Gradual Rollout in Select Areas

As we embark on this exciting journey, we will gradually roll out our loan services in select areas of Nevada. This phased approach allows us to ensure that we maintain the high level of service and compliance that our clients have come to expect. You will begin to see more information about our Nevada lending opportunities in our future communications.

Committed to Compliance and Service Excellence

Compliance is a top priority for us. We sub-service our out-of-state loans through an external servicer who handles payment collection, ensuring that we adhere to all out-of-state servicing requirements. This commitment to regulatory compliance allows us to focus on providing you with seamless and efficient lending experiences.

Join Us in This New Endeavor

We are excited about the possibilities that Nevada's real estate market holds and are eager to build lasting relationships with new clients and partners in the region. If you're interested in exploring financing options for your next business or investment property in Nevada, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Stay Tuned

Keep an eye on our upcoming communications for more details about our Nevada lending programs. We're here to provide you with quality trust deed opportunities and are committed to helping you achieve your investment goals.

Legislative Changes

Governor Newsom has signed Senate Bill 1146, sponsored by the California Mortgage Association, which will take effect on January 1, 2025, to address the usury issues created by the In re Moon decisions. The new law allows any licensed broker to negotiate or arrange a forbearance, modification, or extension of a loan with an interest rate over 10% while retaining the broker exemption from usury caps. This legislative fix comes after the 9th Circuit's Bankruptcy Appellate Panel limited lenders' options in In re Moon, requiring the original broker's involvement in forbearances to maintain the usury exemption, thus constraining lenders trying to help borrowers avoid foreclosure. With judicial appeals unsuccessful, SB 1146 provides a solution by expanding the broker exemption, offering more flexibility for lenders and borrowers alike.

Announcing Our New President: Jeff LaMotte

Announcing Our New President: Celebrating the Leadership of Jeff LaMotte at Val-Chris Investments

We are pleased to announce that Jeff LaMotte, a dedicated member of the Val-Chris Investments team since 2009, has been appointed as our new President. This is an exciting milestone for our company, and we couldn't be more thrilled to have Jeff lead us into the future.

A Proven Leader with Deep Roots in Val-Chris Investments

Jeff's journey with Val-Chris Investments began almost two decades ago, and his impact has been profound. Starting in a managerial role, he quickly demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, a keen eye for industry trends, and a deep commitment to our clients' success. His ability to navigate the complexities of the private lending market has been instrumental in our growth and reputation as a trusted provider of quality trust deed investments.

Driving the Company Forward

In his new role as President, Jeff will continue to manage daily operations with the same dedication and strategic vision that has characterized his tenure with us. His focus will be on:

  • Innovation: Introducing new services and technologies to enhance our investment offerings.

  • Client Relationships: Strengthening our commitment to providing personalized service and building lasting partnerships.

  • Market Expansion: Exploring new opportunities in emerging markets to provide our clients with diverse investment options.

"I am honored to take on this new role and continue working with our talented team to drive Val-Chris Investments forward," said Jeff. "Our clients are at the heart of everything we do, and I am committed to ensuring we deliver the highest quality trust deed investment opportunities available."

What This Means for Our Valued Clients

Jeff's promotion signifies our unwavering commitment to excellence and stability. Under his leadership, clients can expect:

  • Consistent Quality: Ongoing access to meticulously vetted trust deed investments that meet our rigorous standards.

  • Enhanced Communication: A continued emphasis on transparency and open dialogue to keep you informed and confident in your investment decisions.

  • Personalized Service: Tailored solutions that align with your unique investment goals and risk tolerance.

A Look Back at Jeff's Contributions

Throughout his time with Val-Chris Investments, Jeff has been a catalyst for positive change. Some of his notable achievements include:

  • Operational Efficiency: Streamlining processes to improve efficiency and client satisfaction.

  • Team Development: Cultivating a team of skilled professionals who share a commitment to excellence.

  • Market Adaptation: Navigating the company through market fluctuations with strategic foresight and adaptability.

Looking Ahead

The future is bright for Val-Chris Investments. With Jeff at the helm, we are poised to continue our legacy of providing exceptional investment opportunities and fostering strong relationships with our clients.

We are grateful for your trust and partnership over the years. Your success is our success, and we are dedicated to helping you achieve your financial goals.

Join Us in Congratulating Jeff

Please join us in congratulating Jeff LaMotte on his new role as President. We are confident that his leadership will bring continued prosperity to our clients and the Val-Chris Investments family.

Stay Connected

We invite you to reach out with any questions or to learn more about how our services can support your investment objectives. Here's to a new chapter of growth and success together!

Understanding Property Taxes and Their Impact on Real Estate Investments

Property taxes are a significant aspect of real estate investment that can affect your bottom line. This post will explain how property taxes work, factors influencing them, and how to mitigate their impact on your investment.

How Property Taxes Work: Property taxes are levied by local governments and are based on the assessed value of the property. The rate at which these taxes are imposed varies widely depending on the location and the type of property.

Factors Influencing Property Taxes:

  • Location: Properties in areas with higher public service demands generally have higher tax rates.

  • Property Value: Higher-valued properties incur higher taxes, which are reassessed periodically based on current market conditions.

  • Exemptions: Some properties qualify for tax exemptions, which can significantly reduce the tax burden.

Mitigating Tax Impacts:

  • Research: Before investing, understand the tax landscape of the area. Lower-tax areas might offer higher net returns.

  • Legal Avenues: Explore possibilities for contesting property tax assessments or securing abatements.

  • Efficient Property Management: Maintaining and improving property efficiency can help keep operational costs low, offsetting higher taxes.

While property taxes are an unavoidable cost of real estate investment, understanding and strategically planning for them can help minimize their impact. By factoring in taxes to your investment calculations, you can better predict your true return on investment and make more informed decisions.

The Pros and Cons of Investing in Commercial vs. Residential Real Estate

Investing in real estate can be highly lucrative, whether you choose commercial or residential properties. This post will discuss the pros and cons of each type to help you decide which aligns best with your investment strategy.

Commercial Real Estate: Pros:

  • Higher income potential due to longer lease agreements and higher rent charges.

  • Less turnover, which can mean less frequent maintenance and renovation costs.

  • Tenants often handle some maintenance costs (depending on the lease agreement).

Cons:

  • Larger initial investment and higher property management costs.

  • More significant impact from economic downturns; businesses are more likely to default on leases during a recession.

  • Complex valuation processes which require understanding of commercial market dynamics.

Residential Real Estate: Pros:

  • Consistent demand for housing makes it a stable investment.

  • Easier to finance and manage, especially for new investors.

  • More liquidity in the residential market compared to commercial properties.

Cons:

  • Potential for high tenant turnover, especially in certain markets, which can lead to fluctuating income.

  • Smaller returns on investment compared to commercial properties, depending on the location and property type.

  • Managing tenants and property maintenance can be time-consuming.

The choice between investing in commercial or residential real estate depends on your financial goals, investment capital, and ability to manage properties. Each type offers unique opportunities and challenges that should be carefully considered before making an investment decision.

Long-term vs. Short-term: Choosing Your Real Estate Investment Strategy

Real estate investors often grapple with deciding between long-term and short-term investment strategies. Each approach has its own benefits and challenges, which this post will explore to help you make an informed decision.

Long-term Investment Strategy: Long-term real estate investments typically involve buying properties to hold for periods of several years. The focus is on capital appreciation and rental income. Benefits include the potential for steady cash flow and significant appreciation in property value over time. Challenges include managing ongoing maintenance and dealing with fluctuating rental markets.

Short-term Investment Strategy: Short-term strategies often involve flipping houses or investing in properties to rent for brief periods (such as vacation rentals). These investments can yield quick returns but require a keen market sense and timing. The main challenges include higher turnover costs and the need for active management.

Comparing the Two:

  1. Risk and Return: Long-term investments tend to be less risky and provide returns through appreciation and rental income. Short-term investments can offer higher returns but at a greater risk.

  2. Time and Effort: Long-term investments require ongoing management over years, whereas short-term investments are more intensive in the short term but can be liquidated quickly.

  3. Market Dependence: Short-term investments are highly sensitive to market conditions, while long-term investments can weather short-term market fluctuations better.

Choosing between long-term and short-term real estate investments depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and commitment level. By understanding the nuances of each strategy, you can better align your approach with your overall investment objectives.