Private lender / bridge financing

Short-term solution — when the bank doesn't follow, but you have equity.

A private loan isn't failure — it's a temporary tool, 12 to 24 months, to seize an opportunity, get through a rough patch, or fund a project the bank won't touch as-is. The difference between a smart solution and a financial trap? A clear exit plan back to a traditional lender, written from day one. The AMF broker in the Courteo network writes it with you: transparent terms, rates plainly stated.

Start my file (3 questions)

Who this is for

You need funds within 10-21 days to seize an opportunity.
Your credit is temporarily damaged (recent consumer proposal, bankruptcy <2 years).
Your income is hard to document for a bank (recent self-employed, cash income, startup project).
You're buying an atypical property (heavy renovation, particular zoning, off-market).
You need bridge financing (purchase before sale of current home).
You want to extract equity the bank refuses (refinance blocked).

What brokers in the Courteo network look at

Private loans look at equity first, profile second. An experienced AMF broker builds a file that reassures the lender and plans the exit.

Property equity (value × 65-75% LTV max — more conservative than a bank).
Credible exit plan: resale, bank refinance at 12-24 months, asset sale.
Capacity to carry interest payments (often interest-only to preserve cash flow).
Opening fees (1-3% of loan) + brokerage fees + notary/appraisal fees expected.
Interest rate (typical 7-12%, sometimes 15% depending on file and term).
Renewal / early repayment terms (often 3 months interest penalty).

FAQ — private lender

What rates do private lenders charge?
Typically 7-12% interest + 1-3% opening fees. Shorter term and lower LTV mean better rate. If someone offers above 15%, ask an AMF broker to compare — you'll likely find better.
How long to obtain a private loan?
7 to 21 days on average (vs 30-45 days for a bank). In absolute urgency (bridge financing), some lenders close in 5-7 days. The AMF broker from the Courteo network speeds this up via direct relationships.
Is it legal and safe?
Yes, perfectly legal in Canada. Private lenders are governed by the Quebec Civil Code (usury rate if >60% effective interest). The contract is notarized, the mortgage registered at the Land Registry — same mechanics as a bank mortgage, just more expensive.
How long can I stay with a private lender?
Ideally 12-24 months max. Beyond that, cumulated costs (rate + renewal fees) become disproportionate. The exit plan (bank refinance) is negotiated upfront with the broker — that's the golden rule.
What if my exit plan fails?
The AMF broker from the Courteo network monitors your file during the term to adjust (renewal with another cheaper private, partial sale, refinance with B alternative lender). You're not left alone at maturity.

Let's discuss your situation, no commitment.

2 minutes to start. A Courteo Prêts coordinator calls you within the day to understand the urgency and context. The AMF broker from the Courteo network evaluates if a private loan is really the best solution — or if another option (B lender, refinance, HELOC) is more suitable.

Start my file (3 questions)Start my file (3 questions)

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