LLC

Aurum and Sharpe was founded in 2017 by me, Bryan Hanley, and one of my best friends, Rudy Renelique. After many years working at big banks like Chase, and Wells Fargo, we decided we could bring value to a mortgage market that was starving for independent thinkers. So we started Aurum and Sharpe over a phone call about financing a multi-family deal in Brooklyn. Since starting this business we’ve been on many adventures from financing a $20 million portfolio of single families, to meeting the President of Rwanda and Finance Minister of Namibia.

Team and our partners at Maya’s Hope Fundraiser

Rudy has gone on to start his own firm, Overture Capital, while I’ve stayed on to grow Aurum and Sharpe. Aurum is the original Latin word for gold (that’s why the periodic table has it listed at Au). We chose it because we think of our word as “as good as Gold.” And in that vein, we want to add value to every customer we come in contact with. Our promise is that by working with us, you will increase your Freedom, Purpose, and Fulfillment.

Our process includes learning your overall objectives and where you want to go in your life so that we make sure your financing enhances your life and gets you to your destination much faster. What that means though, is that we are not like every other broker on the street that will only do a surface level amount of learning about you, your life, and your motivations. For us, that is Gold. We want to learn how we can tailor your financing so that you thrive in your life! So before we talk about rates, terms, or anything else, we are going to try and figure out how to add value through financing.

We know this approach isn’t for everyone. But if this resonates with you, lets talk: 917 475 6207

Less well known about me is that I’ve also served as the Head of Marketing at a Y combinator Cyber Security Startup (raised their value by creating winning marketing, twice), served as a marketing specialist, data management contractor for the Cyber Security Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA, which is a division of the United States Department Of Homeland Security), wrote and published “The House Hustle” for Black Entrepreneurs, wear two five-fold Crosses, hold a degree in Africana Studies from Rutgers University (I’ll always be a Scarlet Knight), and am former active firefighter.

Feel free to verify any of this on Linkedin:

Live Free! Break the Chains!

July 16, 2024

The Lifecycle of a Residential Real Estate Investor

The Lifecycle of a Residential Real Estate Investor Investing in residential real estate is a journey that offers the potential for significant financial rewards, but it also comes with its own set of challenges and learning curves. Understanding the lifecycle of a residential real estate investor can help prospective investors prepare for the various stages and make informed decisions along the way. Here, we explore the typical stages that investors go through, from initial planning to building and managing a robust real estate portfolio. Stage 1: Education and Planning The journey of a residential real estate investor often begins with education and planning. Aspiring investors start by educating themselves about the real estate market, investment strategies, and financial principles. This stage involves: Stage 2: Market Research and Property Search Once investors have a solid foundation of knowledge, they move on […]
September 13, 2023

5 Super Effective, Killer, Unique Ways Real Estate Investors Find Deals

Real estate investment is a dynamic and lucrative field that offers numerous opportunities for investors to grow their wealth. However, finding the right deals is often the most challenging aspect of real estate investment. While traditional methods such as working with real estate agents or scouring online listings can be effective, seasoned investors often employ more innovative and unique strategies to discover hidden gems. In this article, we will explore five super effective, killer, and unique ways real estate investors find deals. Driving for Dollars One of the most unconventional yet highly effective methods used by real estate investors is “Driving for Dollars.” This technique involves physically driving through neighborhoods, particularly those with high potential for investment, and scouting properties that appear distressed or neglected. This hands-on approach allows investors to identify opportunities that may not be listed on the […]
October 5, 2022

Best Mortgage Rates for Investment Property

One of the various methods to provide income and long-term wealth is purchasing an investment property. However, as with any investment, there are risks associated with purchasing and owning this kind of property, and financing requirements differ considerably from those for a permanent residence. Most people shy away from real estate investment for usually one main reason, and that is: the loans for investment property typically have higher interest rates. When a lender is aware that a property is not your primary dwelling, it raises the buzzer sign of risk. Mortgage rates are usually very high because of the more significant risks associated with investment properties. In addition, lenders are stricter since borrowers are more likely to default on a property other than their primary residence. As a result, riskier investments frequently have higher interest rates and more stringent financing […]
October 5, 2022

Investment Property Mortgage Rates

Real estate is always regarded as a profitable investment. Initially, income from investment properties was considered a secondary source of income. However, they can now be sufficiently profitable to serve as a primary source of income. This means you can consider making a direct living out of it. But, there is a catch, and that drawback is that investment property loans have higher interest rates, which makes them more challenging to obtain.  One of the various methods to provide income and long-term wealth is purchasing an investment property, often known as an income or rental property. As with any investment, there are dangers associated with purchasing and owning this kind of property, and financing requirements differ considerably from those for a permanent house. The interest rates that lenders charge on loans for investment properties are known as Investment Property Mortgage Rates. […]
October 4, 2022

Best way to get a mortgage for investment properties over $5,000,000

Owning an investment property provides an excellent opportunity to make money from real estate. However, getting an investment property requires a lot of financing and is, thus, mostly funded through mortgages. Getting a mortgage for an investment property is quite difficult already. But when it comes to investment properties over $5 million, it’s almost mission impossible. However, there are ways around it – there are effective ways to get mortgages for that luxurious property, whether you’re an individual or a group. This piece expires some of those ways. What qualifies as an Investment Property? A real estate property is considered an investment property if it was purchased to make a profit through rental income, potential resale, or both. Investment properties may be owned by an individual investor, investment firm, or corporation. These properties may be held for the long term […]
September 30, 2022

Current Mortgage Rates on Investment Properties

Purchasing an investment property or a rental property is one of the easiest ways to make money off real estate. These properties allow you to generate income from rental payments or equity appreciation, i.e., holding on to the property for a while and then selling it for a profit. Purchasing and holding this kind of property carries risks, just like any investment, and the financing criteria are considerably different from those for a permanent dwelling. This piece explores the current mortgage rates on investment properties, as well as other requirements needed to make an investment property purchase. What are Mortgage Rates on Investment Properties? An investment property mortgage refers to a loan obtained to purchase an income-generating property. This loan is typically secured by the property purchased with it. Thus if the borrower defaults on the loan payment, the lender […]
September 30, 2022

15 or 30 Year Mortgage for Investment Property

One of the most important decisions property investors make when submitting a mortgage application is the loan duration. Despite the fact that the vast majority of buyers choose a 30-year mortgage, others use a 15-year mortgage to take advantage of the long-term benefits that a loan with a shorter term can provide. Although a 15-year mortgage requires larger monthly payments, the total interest paid is lower in the long run. This might result in homebuyers saving hundreds or thousands of money, making it a more sensible choice. A 30-year mortgage might be better if you want to diversify your investments or invest in other areas like the stock market while still making monthly mortgage payments. The fact that a 30-year fixed mortgage will provide you more money each month for investing does not necessarily make it the best choice. However, […]
September 30, 2022

Best way to get a Mortgage for Investment Properties over $1,000,000

Are you looking for a mortgage for an investment property over $1,000,000, and you don’t know how? This article will give you a guide to explain in detail how you can get a mortgage for an investment property, the salary requirement for a mortgage, the amount of money required for a down payment and closing costs, and the estimated monthly payments to buying a $1,000,000 mortgage property. A split-level estate or a cottage in the Bay Area may be yours with a $1,000,000 mortgage. No matter what property you choose, having a sizable income and excellent credit will help you receive the jumbo mortgage you require. You’ll need cash and a down payment to pay the loan origination charge, home appraisal, and closing fees. However, in this article, we’ll concentrate on the monthly payment you may anticipate under various circumstances […]
September 30, 2022

Can you Deduct Mortgage Interest on Investment Property?

Do you own an investment property, and are you wondering whether you are eligible for a mortgage interest deduction? This article will give an explicit answer to the question of mortgage interest deduction on an investment property. There are fees that you can write off on your tax return if you own rental property and receive rental revenue from it. These include maintenance, property taxes, depreciation, replacement, and mortgage interest. A tax incentive for homeowners for rental property is the mortgage interest deduction. Mortgage Interest Deduction The mortgage interest deduction is a typically categorized deduction that enables homeowners to exclude from taxable income the interest they pay on any loans used to finance the construction, acquisition, or improvement of their property. Loans for second and vacation homes are also eligible for the mortgage interest deduction, subject to certain restrictions. This […]
September 29, 2022

Are Mortgage Payments On a Rental Property Tax Deductible?

Not quite. While the principal component of your mortgage payment for an investment property is not deductible, the interest that accrues on top of the loan is. Any costs associated with your mortgages, such as account and maintenance fees, are also tax deductible. It is comforting knowing tax deductions would offset the interest, which is a major long-term burden. Let’s look at an illustration: If you borrowed $500,000 for a property over 25 years at a 2.9% interest rate, your interest payments would be about $200,000. Although the interest is tax deductible, it is not “free money” if you intend to keep the home as a rental for the duration of the loan. Always work to get the lowest interest rate, considering any fees and how well the loan fits into your lifestyle. If you had a rate of 2.5% […]