Hard Money Loan Checklist: What to Send to Get Terms Fast (Copy/Paste Template)

Most hard money delays come from incomplete submissions, not slow lenders.
If you want speed, you have to submit a complete file that answers underwriting questions upfront.
A complete submission includes the contract or payoff, scope, budget, comps, and a clear exit plan.
Rehab projects need a line-item budget tied to milestones that can be inspected and funded.
If you send clean data, you get cleaner terms, faster closes, and fewer surprises at the end.
Use the copy/paste template below to submit deals like a serious operator.

At a glance

  • One complete submission eliminates most back-and-forth
  • Contract or payoff + scope + comps + exit = core package
  • Line-item budget prevents rehab draw delays
  • Title and escrow contact info speeds closing
  • Insurance requirements vary by vacancy and condition
  • Always include a backup exit plan

Copy/paste submission template (send this to your lender)

Subject: Deal submission – [PROPERTY ADDRESS]

  1. Property address:
  2. Deal type: Purchase / Refinance
  3. Purchase price (or payoff statement amount):
  4. Estimated rehab budget (if applicable):
  5. ARV [After Repair Value] estimate and comp support:
  6. Scope of work and rehab timeline:
  7. Exit strategy: Sell / Refinance / Hold (include timeline):
  8. Borrower and entity name (LLC [Limited Liability Company] if applicable):
  9. Title and escrow contact (if already selected):
  10. Anything unusual (liens, probate, tenants, code issues, etc.):

Attachments to include (send these on day one)

  • Purchase contract (or payoff statement if refinance)
  • Photos of current condition
  • Line-item scope of work
  • Line-item rehab budget with contingency
  • 3–6 comps supporting ARV [After Repair Value]
  • Entity documents if available: LLC [Limited Liability Company] operating agreement, EIN [Employer Identification Number] confirmation, signer ID

If it’s a flip, include these extra details

  • Draw milestones that match inspections: demo, rough-in, finishes, punch
  • Permit plan and expected durations
  • Holding cost estimate: interest, utilities, insurance, taxes
  • Listing plan: target buyer profile, expected DOM [Days on Market], pricing strategy

If it’s a rental, include these extra details

  • Current lease or projected rent
  • Market rent support if not yet leased
  • Stabilization plan if vacant
  • Refinance plan into DSCR [Debt Service Coverage Ratio] when stabilized

Next step

Hard money program: https://ambitionlending.co/hard-money-loans/
Submit a deal for fast review: https://ambitionlending.co/contact/

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to send everything on day one?

The more complete the file, the faster you get accurate terms. If one item is pending, send what you have and clearly note what is coming and when.

What is the single most important attachment?

The purchase contract or payoff statement, plus a clear scope and budget if the property needs work

How many comps should I include for ARV [After Repair Value]?

Include enough comps to support a realistic value range and explain why your comps match the finished scope.

Will this checklist guarantee approval?

No. Approval depends on the deal. The checklist ensures the lender can evaluate quickly and accurately.

What if the deal has something unusual?

Call it out upfront. Unusual details discovered late create delays and can change terms.

Where should I send the deal?

Use the Contact page so your submission routes correctly: https://ambitionlending.co/

Hard Money Loans: https://ambitionlending.co/hard-money-loans/

Fix & Flip Loans: https://ambitionlending.co/fix-flip-loans/

FAQ: https://ambitionlending.co/faq/

Contact: https://ambitionlending.co/contact/

Talk to us to Secure a Loan today!