The Investor Scenario & Opportunity
An experienced real estate investor identified a distressed mixed-use property on North Woodington Road in West Baltimore. Featuring a ground-floor commercial storefront with residential space above, the asset presented a strong value-add opportunity in an establishing neighborhood corridor. The seller required a guaranteed closing within six business days. However, the building required mechanical modernization, roof repairs, and interior updates to bring both the retail and residential units up to full market standards.
The Challenge
Conventional commercial banks refused to fund the transaction due to the property's mixed-use designation, deferred maintenance, and the seller's urgent timeline. Traditional bank underwriters required a full commercial appraisal and environmental review, which would have taken three to four weeks and caused the investor to lose the contract. The borrower needed a direct private lender who could underwrite mixed-use real estate without institutional red tape.
The Henry Solution
Hard Money Henry underwrote the property using local Baltimore commercial and residential valuation metrics. We verified that the title was clear of unredeemed ground rent obstacles, issued a formal commitment letter within 24 hours, and structured a $160,615 fix and flip loan. The financing covered 85% of the purchase price ($115,615) and 100% of the $45,000 renovation scope. By evaluating the asset in-house, we eliminated appraisal delays and closed the loan in five business days. Construction funds were disbursed through a fast, milestone-based draw schedule to keep contractors working without delay.
The Financial Outcome
The investor completed the renovation in 60 days, restoring the storefront for a commercial tenant and upgrading the residential unit. The finished property was appraised at $255,000, allowing the investor to refinance into a long-term commercial DSCR loan, recoup their equity, and hold the asset for ongoing monthly cash flow.
Key Takeaways for Baltimore Investors
- Mixed-Use Flexibility: Working with a lender who underwrites both commercial and residential components on a single asset prevents lost opportunities on urban value-add properties.
- Ground Rent Verification: Verifying clear title and addressing any ground rent redemption requirements early keeps Baltimore closings on schedule.
- Speed Secures Purchase Discounts: Closing in five business days gives you the leverage to negotiate lower purchase prices with motivated sellers.
Submit your property address today for a 24-hour commitment letter and fast closing terms.
Got A Deal That Needs Funding?
Send us the address and your numbers. Get terms same-day and close in as little as 24 hours.
