Recourse Loans

Recourse loans are loans that provide the personal guarantee of the person borrowing the money or the person(s) behind the entity borrowing the money. Recourse can benefit the borrower in that if he feels confident about putting his personal name and personal assets behind the loan, he can sometimes achieve better loan terms, but more often than not, recourse is required when a borrower or borrowing entity is not strong enough on its own, or if the property itself doesn't fall into a category that makes it conventional. Traditionally, for example, hard money loans, are full recourse. Either way recourse allows greater security for the entity lending the money. 

With recourse loans, in the event of a default, in any capacity, usually in the form of falling behind on loan payments, the lender can seek financial damages from the borrower directly, so that if the investor does take a loss on the property it can go after the borrower individually for the balance of the money owed. This can include repossessing personal property, or even garnishing wages from a borrower’s bank account.

Recourse Loans vs. Non-Recourse Loans

In contrast to recourse loans, non-recourse loans do not generally allow a lender to pursue a borrower’s non-collateral assets in the case of a loan default. However, there are certain exceptions; most non-recourse loan agreements contain “bad boy carve outs,” which stipulate that, if a borrower engages in certain “bad boy” activities, the loan will become recourse. Common bad boy carve outs include carve-outs include carve outs for fraud, financial misrepresentation, and intentionally declaring bankruptcy.

In regards to multifamily loans, most bank loans, bridge loans, and construction loans are full recourse, while Fannie Mae®, Freddie Mac®, HUD/FHA Multifamily, and CMBS loans are generally non-recourse.

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