Trust Deed investing is the loaning
of money with real estate as collateral. In California,
most loans against Real Estate are called “Trust
Deeds,” after the name of the legal instrument
used to pledge their security. With expert guidance from
The Alliance Portfolio, anyone can successfully invest
in trust deeds. This contrasts with most other investments
where extensive study and years of experience may be
necessary before you can invest with confidence. Trust
Deeds are safer than most other investments of comparable
yield because the risks are identifiable, as well as
the procedures necessary to counter them. Many investors,
especially retired people, also enjoy the relatively
minor effort needed to manage the investment once their
money is in place.
The typical trust deed investor is a person
looking for a competitive return on their investment. The
interest rate the borrower pays is generally higher than
the borrower would pay at a bank. The investor in turn,
receives a higher return on his investment. Additionally,
the money you loan is secured by the borrowers’ equity
in their real estate. The security, the good return, plus
the monthly cash flow, make trust deeds and excellent investment
vehicle.
Investing through a Loan Broker
Most private money trust deed investments
are conducted through loan brokers, who either arrange
new real estate loans, or who broker the sale of existing
loans. If truly an expert in the business, the broker brings
vast knowledge about the origination and administration
of trust deed investing. One of the most important requirements
in trust deed investing is the knowledge, experience and
integrity of the loan broker through whom the transactions
may be made or arranged. One possible indicator of a good
broker is his membership in professional trade organizations
such as CMA (California Mortgage Association) or CREFF
(Commercial Real Estate Finance Forum). Membership in a
professional association requires a vigorous educational
program designed to keep the broker apprized of every nuance
of the law. Additionally, a loan broker that has been successful
enough to withstand the test of time is one of the best
recommendations of all.
Before placing your trust and money with
a Loan Broker, you would be wise to call: (1) The Department
of Real Estate to determine if the broker and any representatives
are properly licensed, how long each has been licensed,
and whether any of the licenses have been disciplined:
and (2) the local Better Business Bureau to ask if any
complaints have been lodged.