Hard Money Commercial Appraisals
Hard money loans move quickly and rely heavily on the property's value. We provide independent, defensible valuations that help hard money lenders assess collateral and structure loans on Atlanta-area commercial real estate.
A hard money appraisal supports a specific type of private, asset-based lending where the property is the primary collateral and decisions are made on a short timeline. This is an appraisal assignment, typically concluding an as-is market value that the lender uses to set loan-to-value. The deliverable is an appraisal report with a supported value conclusion, often delivered on a faster schedule than a conventional assignment.
We do not make lending decisions, guarantee loan approval, or promise a particular loan amount or terms. The lender determines loan-to-value, terms, and approval. Our role is an independent, defensible opinion of value the lender can rely on. The exact scope, value definition (for example, as-is versus as-stabilized), and timeline are confirmed with the lender before work begins.
When Clients Need This Service
Hard money lenders and brokers request valuations when a borrower needs fast, asset-based financing—often for a time-sensitive acquisition, a fix-and-flip, a value-add repositioning, or a property that doesn't fit conventional underwriting. Because hard money loans are shorter-term and collateral-based, the lender's decision hinges on a credible, current value.
For example, an investor acquiring a distressed retail building with a plan to re-tenant and exit within 18 months may use hard money to close quickly. The lender needs to know the as-is value today to size the loan. Borrowers may also order an independent valuation to understand their position before approaching a lender, though the lender will typically order or require its own appraisal.
What the Analysis Considers
The factors relevant to this assignment vary with the property and the question being asked. Depending on the agreed scope, the analysis may consider:
- As-is market value of the property in its current condition, without assuming work that has not been completed
- The property's current condition, deferred maintenance, and any environmental or title issues
- Recent comparable sales and, where relevant, rental evidence for the property type
- The proposed business plan—rehab, re-tenanting, or redevelopment—and whether an as-stabilized value is also needed
- Exit strategy and the realistic time horizon to achieve it
- Market conditions and liquidity for the property type in the submarket
- The lender's specific reporting requirements and turnaround
Not every assignment applies all three valuation approaches. The approaches used depend on the property type, available data, and the assignment's intended use.
Documents & Information That May Help
Providing the following can streamline an assignment, but not every item is required to begin. We can discuss what is available during the initial call.
Property address and purchase contract or HUD-1
If a transaction is underway
Scope of work or rehab plan and budget
For value-add deals
Current rent roll and leases
If occupied
Any known environmental, title, or condition issues
Lender's appraisal requirements
Report format and value definition
How the Engagement Works
Every engagement begins with a conversation so the scope, fee, and timing fit the property and the question you need answered. A typical engagement moves through these stages:
Initial discussion
We confirm the property, the loan scenario, the value definition, and the timeline the lender needs.
Scope confirmation
We agree on as-is and/or as-stabilized scope, report format, fee, and delivery date in writing.
Inspection & research
We inspect the property and research comparable sales and rentals for the property type.
Analysis
We conclude as-is value—and as-stabilized where scoped—using the approaches supported by the data.
Delivery
We deliver the report on the agreed schedule and answer the lender's follow-up questions.
Scope, fees, and timing depend on the property type, assignment complexity, and the report format the client or intended user requires. We confirm these in writing before work begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this service.
Request Your
Free Appraisal Quote
Tell us about your property and what you need the valuation to address. To help us respond quickly, please include the property address, property type, assignment purpose, the relevant valuation date, and your requested completion date.
Gold Rush Appraisal provides commercial real estate valuations across the Atlanta metro area. Call us directly or send the details through the form and we'll get back to you promptly.
404-882-7881