Wildcat Lending is now Crebrid—powered by a new partnership with Barings. Press release here.

Crebrid in Columbus

Columbus is a fast-moving market where investors often have to balance tight contract timelines with real renovation realities. Crebrid supports Columbus buyers and operators with hard money financing built around speed, transparency, and execution. We know the local pace, the pressure to close clean, and the upside that comes from acting decisively when the right deal hits your desk.

Start Online ApplicationClick for Rates

Hard Money Lending in Columbus

Hard money loans in Columbus are often used when a property needs renovation, the seller wants a short close, or the deal simply cannot wait on conventional underwriting. Investors lean on private money for fix and flips, value-add small multifamily rehabs, and transitional acquisitions where the business plan depends on quick funding and a clear draw process. Crebrid works with flippers, small developers, and buy-and-hold investors looking for investment property loans in Columbus that keep the project timeline realistic and the closing process predictable.

In competitive situations, speed alone is not enough. You also need terms you can actually underwrite and a lending partner that can follow through.

Top Neighborhoods for Investors

Columbus gives investors a wide range of opportunity, from established neighborhoods with consistent buyer demand to pockets where reinvestment is actively reshaping housing stock. The best outcomes usually come from tight deal selection, disciplined rehab scopes, and an exit plan that fits the local comps or renter profile. Here are four Columbus neighborhoods investors commonly consider when evaluating new projects:

German Village

German Village is known for strong buyer demand and a premium on craftsmanship, which can reward renovations that respect layout, finishes, and historical character. Investors typically underwrite carefully here because over-improving can be just as risky as under-delivering.

Short North

Short North is often evaluated for rental demand tied to proximity, amenities, and a steady flow of tenants who value walkability. Projects tend to pencil best when the unit mix and finish level align with realistic rent comps, not a best-case scenario.

Franklinton

Franklinton is frequently watched for redevelopment momentum, with opportunities where a controlled basis and clear scope can create upside. Many investors focus on durability upgrades and clean execution to protect timelines as the neighborhood continues to evolve.

Clintonville

Clintonville can work well for investors targeting stable resale interest and consistent rental demand, especially when renovations prioritize functional layouts and core systems. Conservative rehab planning often matters more than flashy finishes in keeping budgets and schedules on track.

Loan Options

Crebrid offers investor-focused financing for Columbus real estate projects, with loan options designed to match your timeline, scope, and exit strategy. Use the links below to explore programs built for flips, short-term transitions, new builds, and recapitalizations:

Fix & Flip Loans

Columbus fix and flip loans can fund both acquisition and renovation, helping you close quickly and start work without waiting through bank delays. This option is designed around after-repair value, practical leverage, and a draw process that supports real construction pacing.

Learn More
Bridge Loans

Columbus bridge loans provide short-term capital for deals in transition, including acquisitions, vacancy, repositioning, or light-to-moderate rehab. Investors often use bridge financing to secure the asset now, then refinance or sell once the property stabilizes and the exit is ready.

Learn More
New Construction Loans

New construction loans support Columbus ground-up and infill projects with funding structured around progress and key build milestones. This helps keep your project moving from early phases through finishes while capital stays aligned with the build schedule.

Learn More
Refinance Loans

A Columbus refinance loan can replace existing debt, adjust terms, or unlock equity after improvements or stronger property performance. Many investors refinance to recycle capital into the next purchase while keeping liquidity available for active projects.

Learn More

How It Works in Columbus

1
Send the deal details

Send the property address, purchase contract or payoff statement, and the closing date you are targeting. If the project includes renovation, include a clear scope of work and budget so the deal can be sized correctly. Strong inputs up front reduce delays later.

2
Get clear terms, tailored to your project

Terms are structured around the asset, leverage, and your exit plan rather than a one-size-fits-all box. You see the key numbers early so you can underwrite with confidence and decide without guessing. If something needs to be adjusted, it is flagged early to protect your closing window.

3
Tech-powered underwriting and verification

Crebrid uses a tech-powered workflow to streamline document collection and verification while keeping underwriting focused on risk drivers. This reduces unnecessary back-and-forth and keeps approvals moving. The goal is faster decisions with disciplined checks.

4
Close and fund without the usual drag

Once approved, the process moves toward closing in a way that supports your contract timing and execution plan. Funding is coordinated to match actual project needs rather than slow administrative cycles. For rehab projects, draws are managed through the platform so crews are not stuck waiting on paperwork.

5
Sell, refi, or roll into your next project

When the rehab wraps or the property stabilizes, you can sell, refinance, or redeploy based on your strategy and timeline. Strong outcomes usually come from controlling basis, keeping schedules realistic, and planning for execution risk. Payoff coordination stays straightforward so you can transition cleanly into the next deal.

Speak to a Client Advisor

They Hit Submit. We Did the Rest.

01 / 00
Nick Poulos

I’ve worked with Kevin Shipman and Crebrid for 7 years across referrals, client deals, and our own investments. Kevin is always reliable and delivers exceptional service. Most recently, he and Ford Story went above and beyond to fund a last-minute deal when a client backed out. They made it happen on time, and we’re grateful to keep working with them.

Alicia Berridge
 - St. Louis / California

I’ve worked with Crebrid on four transactions since November 2023, and they’ve been exceptional every step of the way—from lending and insurance to rehab and answering all my questions. They’re professional, reliable, and ethical—especially in the hard money space. Big shoutout to Jack, my rep, for your patience and support. You’re the best. Love this team!

Bella Investments

Fantastic service from William at Crebrid! He ensured my draw requests were processed smoothly and efficiently, with great attention to detail and communication. Truly professional and dedicated—highly recommend for any lending needs!

Jennifer Miller

Isaiah in the Atlanta market has been amazing to work with. My clients rave about his great service and quick turnaround when processing their loans. A pleasure to work with and a true professional in my book. He is my number one go-to when referring clients for their hard money lending needs.

Submit Your Columbus Deal Today

Explore Rates

Columbus Real Estate Market Snapshot

Real estate investing in Columbus is influenced by practical details like tax due dates, permitting workflow, and transfer costs that can impact carry time and closing logistics. Here are a few Columbus-specific data points investors often factor into underwriting:

  • Franklin County real estate tax due dates: First-half real estate taxes are due February 28, 2026, and the Treasurer notes the second-half due date has historically been June 20 but will be no earlier than July 20, 2026.
  • Columbus building permits and how to track them: The City of Columbus notes that the permitting process begins with submitting an application and any required plans, then routing through department reviews, and status can be tracked through the Citizen Access Portal.
  • Franklin County conveyance fee and transfer tax support: Franklin County provides a Transfer Tax and Conveyance Fee Calculator, including guidance on payment requirements and a reduced conveyance fee when a living grantor receives the homestead exemption at the time of transfer.

Explore More Cities Across the State

Cleveland
Dayton
Cincinnati

Additional Resources

Lending

How Hard Money Loans Are Driving Real Estate Investment Growth in San Antonio

01.31.2025
San Antonio's real estate market has been booming, attracting investors looking for profitable opportunities. With the city's rich history, strong job market, and increasing population.
Investment

Why Wildcat Lending Is the Best Choice for Hard Money Loans in Texas

12.11.2024
When it comes to financing real estate investments in Texas, finding the right lender can make all the difference. Traditional loans often involve slow approvals, cumbersome documentation, and rigi...
Investment

Why Interest-Only Payments Make Hard Money Loans Attractive for Texas Investors

12.16.2024
For real estate investors in Texas, the ability to access quick and flexible financing can make or break a deal. Hard money loans, particularly those with interest-only payment options, have become...

Columbus Real Estate Investing FAQs

Yes. Many Columbus hard money lenders are primarily asset-based, so the property, deal structure, and exit plan often matter more than a perfect credit score. Credit can still be reviewed, but strong collateral and a realistic scope and timeline can keep the process moving.