I'm curious if this uptick is due to many investors being involved in hard money loans and now facing the need to refinance, unexpectedly encountering significantly higher interest rates compared to a few years back.

I am currently completing the pre-licensure course for my MLO license, aiming to become a mortgage broker specializing in primarily non-QM/hard money products, along with some conforming loans.

On the rental side, say you take a loan on 150k (75% LTV) at 7.5% rate.

The 15% DP is financed through our private money lender. 1 year loan ($150k) at 5%.

We found a property that we like a lot and was getting ready to pull the trigger on it but wanted to know what would be the best strategy for us without going the conventional loan way or FHA way due to having to; 1-having to put down 20% for conventional and 2-having to live in the property for a minimum of 1 year with the FHA.

This, I feel, is the least you could do in a subto deal if the loan remains in the seller's name. 

However, rents keep increasing and, assuming you get fixed rate loan, your p&i is fixed.  

I know several lenders that'll do a loan in your LLC, but it'll be a debt service coverage, ratio loan or dscr.

We are also helping a client do a construction loan for a $750k purchase plus $400k for renovations and adu with 5% down payment. 

Loan gets cancelled.2.