Hard money lending offers a fast, flexible alternative to traditional financing for real estate investors. In St. Louis, where property values vary neighborhood by neighborhood and investment opportunities move quickly, having access to immediate capital can be the difference between landing a profitable deal or missing out.
Westre Financial Group, a long-standing hard money lender in the region, has funded over 2,650 loans totaling more than $143 million. Their model is designed specifically for real estate investors focused on purchasing and renovating residential rental properties in St. Louis City and County.
Let’s break down exactly how hard money lending works, how Westre Financial operates, and what sets their process apart.
What Is Hard Money?
Hard money is a type of loan secured strictly by collateral—in this case, the property being purchased. Unlike traditional bank loans that rely heavily on the borrower’s credit score, income verification, and financial history, hard money loans focus almost entirely on the asset itself.
If the property makes financial sense, the loan is approved. It’s that straightforward.
At Westre Financial, this means evaluating whether the purchase and renovation costs leave enough room for a reasonable investor profit. If the deal passes their four-point review, funding is approved, often within a day of property inspection.
Who Are Westre Financial?
Brad and Barb Westre have been in the real estate and hard money business for decades. Their background is deep—starting in the residential rental business in 1972, owning up to 300 properties, and running a property management company that oversaw up to 850 rentals.
They’ve operated in hard money lending since 2001, making over 2,650 loans without using outside investor funds or borrowed capital. Their experience in evaluating deals, managing properties, and understanding the St. Louis real estate market makes them uniquely qualified to guide investors.
They focus only on St. Louis City and County, which keeps their knowledge sharp and their funding reliable.
The Loan Process at Westre Financial
Westre Financial’s lending process is simple and efficient. Here’s how it works from start to finish:
- Complete the Borrower Application
Start by filling out the borrower application available on their website. If a pre-approval letter is needed, it’s provided at this stage. - Identify a Property and Submit the Property Application
Once you’ve found a property, you’ll fill out the property application and submit proof of funds for the renovation budget. - Property Evaluation
Brad will personally visit the property the next day. He evaluates four key areas:- Purchase price
- Renovation cost
- Soft charges
- Anticipated resale price (based on comps)
- Loan Approval and Funding
If the deal makes financial sense and shows expected profit, Westre Financial approves the loan for 100% of the purchase price. The loan funds as soon as the title company is ready to close.
Why Investors Choose Westre Financial
Westre Financial stands out for several reasons:
- 100% financing of the purchase price
- Low rates with no hidden costs
- 2-day closings for fast-moving deals
- All loans are self-funded — no outside investors
- No prepayment penalties
- Non-Missouri residents are welcome
- All processing is done in-house
Their process is streamlined, transparent, and built entirely around what makes a real estate investment deal profitable in St. Louis.
Required Documentation
To begin, you’ll need to download and complete two forms:
- Borrower Application
- Loan Request Application
Both are available as PDFs directly from their website. Along with these, be prepared to submit proof of funds for the renovation portion.
Westre Financial also requires that they are named as the Mortgagee with the following clause:
Westre Financial Group, LLC, PO Box 411035, St Louis, MO 63141
Conclusion
Hard money lending doesn’t have to be complicated. With Westre Financial, it’s a local, focused, and fast process that helps investors close deals without delay. Their decades of hands-on experience in St. Louis real estate give them insight no competitor can match.
Ready to get started? Visit Westre Financial Group to download your application and take the first step toward your next investment.