

Trust Deed Investments: A Growing Trend in California Real Estate

California's real estate market remains one of the most competitive in the United States. With home prices on the rise and traditional financing becoming more restrictive, investors are increasingly turning to trust deed investments as a profitable, secured alternative.
This strategy allows individuals to act as private lenders, offering secured loans backed by real estate while earning high fixed-interest returns. But why are trust deed investments in California becoming so popular? Let’s examine the key reasons.
Why Trust Deed Investments Are Gaining Popularity in California
1. High Returns Compared to Traditional Investments
One of the biggest reasons investors are turning to trust deed investments is the potential for high, fixed returns. Unlike savings accounts or CDs, which offer low-interest rates, trust deed investments often yield:
- -8% to 12% annually for first-position trust deeds.
- -10% to 15% for second-position trust deeds (higher risk, higher reward).
2. Passive Income with Monthly Interest Payments
Trust deed investors receive consistent monthly payments, making this a great option for those looking to generate reliable passive income.
3. Secured by Real Estate (Lower Risk Than Stocks)
Since trust deeds are secured by tangible property, they tend to be less volatile than stock market investments. If the borrower fails to repay, the investor can foreclose and take ownership of the asset.
4. Growing Demand for Alternative Financing
Many California homebuyers and investors struggle to obtain financing from traditional banks due to:
- -Strict lending regulations
- -Self-employed borrowers with non-traditional income sources
- -Real estate investors needing fast capital for fix-and-flip projects
Private lenders offering trust deed loans fill this gap, creating profitable lending opportunities for investors.
5. Hedge Against Inflation and Rising Property Values
Real estate has historically been a strong hedge against inflation. As home prices in California continue to climb, trust deed investors benefit from:
- -Loans secured by appreciating assets
- -Higher interest rates in response to inflation
6. Faster and More Efficient Foreclosure Process
California uses a non-judicial foreclosure process, meaning that foreclosures happen faster and with lower legal costs than in judicial foreclosure states.
7. Short-Term Investments for Faster Liquidity
Most trust deed loans have short durations, typically 6 months to 3 years. This allows investors to reinvest capital quickly rather than locking funds into long-term commitments.
How to Start Investing in Trust Deeds in California
1. Choose the Right Trust Deed Investment Strategy
- First-position trust deeds: Lower risk, lower returns.
- Second-position trust deeds: Higher risk, higher returns.
- Fractional trust deed investing: Multiple investors share a single trust deed investment.
2. Conduct Proper Due Diligence
Before investing, analyze:
- Loan-to-value (LTV) ratio—ideally below 70% for safer investments.
- Borrower’s creditworthiness and financial track record.
- Property location and type—high-demand areas reduce risk.
3. Work with a Trust Deed Investment Company or Broker
Partnering with an experienced trust deed investment company ensures pre-vetted investment opportunities with lower risk and higher transparency.
Risks of Trust Deed Investing & How to Mitigate Them
1. Risk: Borrower Default
Solution: Choose low loan-to-value (LTV) ratios and borrowers with strong credit histories.
2. Risk: Market Downturns Affect Property Values
Solution: Invest in high-demand locations to minimize risk.
3. Risk: Foreclosure Delays
Solution: Work with a trustee experienced in California’s foreclosure process for a smooth recovery process.
Earn Upwards of 12% with Pacific Direct Mortgage
At Pacific Direct Mortgage, we offer exclusive trust deed investment opportunities that allow investors to earn upwards of 12% returns—secured by real estate.
Get Access to Our Exclusive Investor List Today!
🔹 Earn high returns
🔹 Diversify your portfolio
🔹 Exclusive opportunities available throughout California
Ken & Ari Walker
Husband & Wife Team
Phone: 707‑708‑0797 / Office: 1400 N. Dutton Ave #22 Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Ken: CA DRE Broker #01858042 / NMLS #1221130
Ari: CA DRE #01858152 / NMLS #2170867
Ken & Ari are a husband & wife team with combined 3+ decades in real estate and private money industries. They own Pacific Direct Mortgage & Real Estate, specializing in Private Money loans (also known as Hard Money home loans). Having helped thousands of Borrowers & working directly with Brokers, Agents and Lenders to help when needed with fast, flexible, alternative financing for real estate purchases and refinances throughout California. No issues with DTI ratios, credit issues, property condition, difficult to prove income ‑ we want to help!
Comments