1. Collect the loan request
The workflow starts with a complete online application. Brokers should collect borrower, property, loan purpose, requested loan amount, timeline, and exit strategy information before lender outreach begins.
- Borrower and entity details.
- Property address, type, purchase price, and current value.
- Requested loan amount and use of proceeds.
- Exit strategy and target closing date.
2. Match the deal to lenders
Hard money lenders do not all fund the same deals. Match the application to lender criteria before sending quote requests.
Fit checks
Property type, market, loan amount, leverage, borrower experience, and timeline.
Red flags
Unsupported geography, unsupported collateral, unclear exit strategy, or missing borrower details.
3. Build the lender package
Once likely lenders are identified, the broker prepares the documents and data each lender needs to review the deal.
- Completed application data.
- Purchase contract or ownership documents.
- Scope of work and renovation budget, if applicable.
- Borrower experience, entity documents, and lender-specific forms.
4. Request quotes and compare terms
Brokers should track who received the file, when it was sent, what questions came back, and which terms were offered.
- Rate, points, fees, and loan term.
- Maximum loan amount and required borrower contribution.
- Rehab holdback or draw process.
- Closing timeline and conditions.
5. Manage documents to closing
The final stage is coordination: borrower documents, lender conditions, title, insurance, signatures, and closing logistics.
Lending Automator supports this workflow with online applications, lender matching, task automation, borrower reminders, document collection, and e-signatures.