commercial property

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 29, 2023

Navigating the World of Retail Commercial Real Estate Deal Financing

Retail Commercial Real Estate Deal Financing
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 […]
April 27, 2023
Which cities have rent control

Which Cities Have Rent Control?

There are many cities in the US that have some form of rent control, although the specifics of the policies can vary widely. Here is a list of some of the major cities with rent control policies: New York City, NY San Francisco, CA Los Angeles, CA Washington, D.C. Berkeley, CA Santa Monica, CA West Hollywood, CA Oakland, CA San Jose, CA East Palo Alto, CA Richmond, CA Hayward, CA Los Gatos, CA San Diego, CA Cambridge, MA Somerville, MA Brookline, MA Cambridge, MA Boston, MA Portland, OR Portland, ME It’s important to note that rent control policies are often subject to change and can vary in their specifics from city to city. Additionally, some cities may have other forms of tenant protection laws, such as just cause eviction ordinances, that provide additional protections to renters. Mortgage Rates Calculate Your […]
April 25, 2023
How To Calculate DSCR

How to Calculate DSCR: A Simple Guide for the Savvy-ish Investor

Are you a real estate investor who’s a bit confused about what DSCR is and how to calculate it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) can seem like a complicated financial metric that only the most mathematically gifted investors can understand. But fear not! With a little bit of humor and a lot of patience, we’re going to break it down for you. First things first, let’s define what DSCR actually is. In simple terms, DSCR measures a property’s ability to generate enough income to cover its debt obligations. Essentially, it’s a way to determine if a property is generating enough cash flow to pay its mortgage and other debt obligations. This ratio is important for lenders to assess a borrower’s ability to repay a loan, and for investors to assess the profitability of a potential […]
December 28, 2021

Where to Get LLC Loans for Investment Property

New real estate investors commonly ask the internet and other investors, “can I obtain mortgage LLC loans for an investment property?” The answer to that burning question is “yes”! Obtaining an LLC mortgage loan for your investment property comes with a slew of unique benefits. If you are new to getting a loan under an LLC can be very challenging if you don’t know where to start or where to look. No need to worry; we did all of that research for you. In this comprehensive LLC loans for investment property guide, we will go over everything you need to know about getting a rental property under your LLC name and who you can reach out to for more information! Benefits of LLC Loans for Investment Property Rental property investors use an LLC to protect their assets for their investment […]
July 21, 2017

How to Buy a New Building Using Equity You Already Have

Many property owners try to buy new property all the time. In most cases, this involves coming up with a hefty down payment. However, you can avoid having to organize hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash by buying a new building using equity in other properties you already have, a process called cross collateralization. The bank or lender would write a loan using both properties or a number of properties as collateral for the new property you’re buying. The lender then places a lien on all the properties being used as collateral, which includes the property you’re buying and the other properties you’re using as equity. Cross collateralization is uncommon, but it can be done. To qualify for this type of loan, you need to have significant equity in your other properties. Lenders that do this generally will allow […]
July 21, 2017
Financing Your Commercial Property with a Cross-Collateralization Loan

Financing Your Property with a Cross-Collateralization Loan

Many business owners looking to finance multiple properties will do so with a cross-collateralization loan, which involves taking out a new loan using equity in properties they already have. Cross-collateralization loans are most commonly made by private lenders, and are enough to finance at least two properties at once. You can do the same thing with a bridge loan, which you may have heard of, however cross-collateralization loans don’t involve a balloon payment that needs to be paid back in 18 months like bridge loans do, making them an ideal choice for people who don’t want the extra pressure. Just as with any important financial decision, it is important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of a cross-collateralization loan before you decide to apply for one. This type of loan appeals to business owners who want a consistent, reliable source […]
July 21, 2017
Calculating Your Cap Rate and Creating Positive Leverage

Calculating Your Cap Rate and Creating Positive Leverage

The capitalization rate, or cap rate for short, is the rate of return on an investment property based on the amount of income it’s expected to generate in the present year. By calculating the cap rate of a property, you can see the potential rate of return on an investment. Compare the cap rates of multiple properties to see which one is the wisest investment.   Calculating the cap rate The equation to manually calculate a cap rate is fairly simple. All you have to do is calculate the investment property’s net operating income (NOI) by subtracting the total operating expenses from the total operating revenue. Then, you divide the result by the value of the property. total operating revenue – total operating expenses = Net Operating Income (NOI) Net Operating Income (NOI) / value of property= Cap Rate   Let’s […]
May 31, 2017

How to Calculate Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR)

If you’re looking to obtain a loan to finance commercial property, one important metric you’ll need to provide your lender with is the DSCR, or debt service coverage ratio. The DSCR shows how well you will be able to repay the loan, and helps your lender determine the size of the loan. You can calculate it by dividing your business’s net operating income (NOI) by the total debt service. Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) = Net Operating Income (NOI) / total debt service A DSCR of 1.0 means that you’ll be able to pay back your loan with no wiggle room. Obviously, this is not ideal. The DSCR requirement varies by lender, loan type, and property type, but it will always be above 1.0 to provide a cushion in case something goes wrong.   Calculating your NOI Your NOI is defined […]