Should we be paying points before closing

[Keith W.]

I’m coming to the place I can trust for answers. 

I was either approached or maybe I reached out to a private money lender for their terms which are 90% acquisition, 6% interest and 2 points. As a first time investor, these favorable terms raised a red flag. 

The next thing that concerned me was they   didn’t need to do a pre approval. Just let them  know when I found the deal and then fill out the application. 

After finding the deal, I filled out the application. They never asked about the property, an inspection, how much for rehab, for acquisition, etc. I just put the total figure needed in the amount requested. 

They approved the application, then sent over the contract. Everything looked as I would expect it to except the last red flag that made me fully apply my brakes! 

They wanted me to send $5200 in points and fees in order to process loan. I would receive the loan proceeds wired to my bank account (another red flag) within 48 hours.

I called and asked why can’t I pay the points at closing. His response was this is the closing. Once I send the money for the points, they will wire the money. I asked who is the closing attorney or where is the escrow. 

He indicated that I may not be used to dealing with that type of loan situation and assured me everything is on the up and up. 

I felt I better reach out to my BP people to get some insight on this situation. 

Has anyone been in a scenario where they sent points of other fees as a deposit to get the loan processed? 

Is anyone aware of any scams that may be out there trying to get newbies little bit of change? 

[Rick Pozos]

For any other newbies out there, it is not a maybe, IT IS A SCAM!!!!!

I have mentioned many times and I am sure that I will many more times: Meet people in person and make sure that they work for a legitimate business. Best place to find lenders is at your local REIA, NOT ON THE INTERNET!!

If it happens to be a friend or relative who believes in your and knows you, then you might get a great interest rate, but you still need to protect them with a mortgage and/or a deed of trust AND closed at a title company or Atty office.