Question 1

How fast can a hard money loan close in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

Most hard money loans close in 7–21 business days. Repeat borrowers with demonstrated experience often close on the faster end. Rush closings in 5–10 days are available in some circumstances.

Question 2

Do hard money lenders in Georgia check credit?

Accepted Answer

Credit is reviewed but is not the primary underwriting factor. Most programs have a minimum around 640 FICO. Strong property fundamentals, a clear exit strategy, and adequate equity can offset thin or imperfect credit.

Question 3

What is the maximum LTV on a Georgia hard money loan?

Accepted Answer

Up to 70–75% of After Repair Value (ARV) for fix-and-flip deals. For purchase + renovation structures, up to 85–90% of total project cost. Loans on stabilized properties typically go to 65–70% of current appraised value.

Question 4

Can I use hard money financing for a commercial property in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Hard money loans are available on commercial, multi-family (5+), mixed-use, and 1–4 unit residential investment properties. Minimums and LTVs vary by property type.

Question 5

How does foreclosure work on a hard money loan in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

Georgia is a non-judicial power-of-sale state under O.C.G.A. §44-14-160. The lender publishes notice once a week for four consecutive weeks and sends a separate 30-day notice of intent to foreclose under §44-14-162.2, with the sale held on the first Tuesday of the month. The full process often runs 60 days or less, among the fastest in the country, and there is no post-sale redemption right. Verified as of September 2026.

Question 6

Does a Georgia bridge loan owe the intangible recording tax?

Accepted Answer

Usually not, as of 2025. Georgia levies an intangible recording tax of $1.50 per $500 — 0.30% — on “long-term” notes. House Bill 586, effective July 1, 2025, raised the long-term threshold from notes maturing in more than 36 months to notes maturing in more than 62 months. Because most hard money and bridge loans carry 12 to 36 month terms, they now fall below that threshold and are exempt. On a $2,000,000 bridge loan, that is roughly $6,000 that no longer has to be paid at recording. Confirm the current treatment with your closing attorney, since the exemption depends on the stated maturity in the note. Verified as of September 2026.

Feature	Typical Range
Loan amounts	$100,000 – $5,000,000+
LTV	Up to 70–75% ARV; up to 90% of purchase + rehab
Term	6–24 months
Close time	7–21 business days
Income docs	Not required — asset-based underwriting
Pre-payment	None on most programs

Georgia Hard Money Loans