mortgage

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.

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

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 […]
January 10, 2024

DSCR Loan FAQs

Why does a DSCR lender need an operating agreement for my LLC if its not required by the state? This question comes up at least half the time in DSCR loans. Often, DSCR lenders will not close unless there is an operating agreement in the borrower’s file. The reason for this is that the borrower on the loan technically is the LLC. The person behind the LLC is the sponsor, or guarantor. The lender wants to know who legally has right to the property through the LLC. One of the jobs of the operating agreement is to outline who owns the LLC and what percentage they own. Typically any sponsor who owns 20-25% or more of the LLC would be required to be a signer on the loan as well. If you need a mortgage and need help with this, […]
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 […]
March 13, 2023
Investment Property

What to do if your Mortgage Application to buy an Investment Property is rejected?

While it may be tempting to buy an investment property all-cash, especially in a hot seller’s market like the one we’re experiencing all across the U.S., as a real estate investor it’s typically best to secure a long-term mortgage. A long-term mortgage, of 15-, 20-, or even 30-years in length allows investors to take advantage of low-interest rates, and have a stable operating expense budget, that is not sent ratcheting up or down due to multiple loans and their accompanying interest rates. It’s not uncommon for a real estate investor’s application for an investment property mortgage to be rejected. While usually securing a mortgage for an investment property is much more streamlined and straightforward than securing a loan for an owner-occupied home, there are several factors that can cause your application to be rejected by a lender. This can happen […]
January 27, 2022
What credit score do I need to buy an investment property

What credit score do I need to buy an investment property?

Buying an investment property is a major step in becoming an active real estate investor. Purchasing a property in hopes of developing it in the future, flipping a single-family home like you see on TV for a profit, or buying an asset that generates passive rental income can all be exciting ways and reasons to invest in real estate. There are, however, a lot of things you have to do in order to prepare and set yourself up for success. Naturally, you’ll need to do your research, work with the right real estate agent, and find a good deal. And once you do, you’re most likely going to want to finance the purchase, as opposed to paying all cash, which will involve getting a loan. Typically, lenders that specialize in making investment property loans will look at the real estate, […]
January 27, 2022
How often should I refinance my investment property?

How often should I refinance my investment property?

Without a doubt, real estate investing is one of the greatest sources of wealth in our country. According to numerous publications, 90 percent of all top earners in the world have their net worth tied to real estate. However, it’s not simply enough to own real estate to generate wealth necessarily, but rather the cash flow that the real estate you own creates. Unlike the typical 3 bedroom 2 bathroom single-family home where you and your family live, an investment property that is rented out to either a residential or commercial tenant and brings in a consistent source of passive income revenue is where the true power of real estate unfolds. Staying cash flow positive on your real estate, however, is not easy, as there are many expenses to having a rental that are not equally offset by rent. Rising […]
January 26, 2022
Should I Refinance my Rental Property?

Should I Refinance my Rental Property?

Refinancing your investment property can sound a bit confusing. What is the benefit of a refinance? How do I know if I am getting a reasonable rate? This may be your first rental property or one of multiple, and you’re considering, “Is now the time to refinance?”You’ve likely heard the benefits of refinancing your primary residence, but did you know that you can apply those same benefits toward your investment property? Investment property refinances can create opportunities to manage your loan while providing money to reinvest into the property or additional properties. Let’s Break it Down: Currently, mortgage rates are experiencing record lows and they are predicted to stay that way.According to Fannie Mae, the 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage rate should estimate around 2.7 to 2.8% for the year.Typically, investment property rates run higher than that of your primary residence. The […]