In some cases, investors and developers are better off taking out a hard money loan than using a traditional loan. So when is a hard money loan better for developers and investors? Typically, hard money is a better choice when an investor or developer: Needs to close quickly and following traditional funding routes would take too long. Often, banks and other traditional lenders take several weeks – if not longer – to process the paperwork on a loan. Has several good opportunities but not enough cash to accept them all. Banks won’t extend credit if it appears you’ll become over-extended.