Crypto Loans Explained: 9-Hour Funding vs 45 Days

Crypto-backed loans are revolutionizing real estate transactions with 9.6-hour average funding times. Here's exactly how these loans work and why they're experiencing 333% growth.

The Basic Mechanism

Borrowers post Bitcoin or Ethereum as collateral without selling it, avoiding capital gains taxes. They receive cash at a 50% loan-to-value ratio—meaning $500,000 cash for $1 million in Bitcoin collateral.

Traditional Mortgage: 30-45 days, credit checks, income verification
Crypto-Backed Loan: 9.6 hours, no credit check, collateral-based

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Application: Submit crypto wallet verification (30 minutes)

  2. Valuation: Platform assesses crypto holdings (1 hour)

  3. Terms: Receive loan offer at 50% LTV (2 hours)

  4. Funding: Cash wired to escrow (6-8 hours)

Risk Management Features

Platforms protect both parties through automated monitoring:

  • 60% LTV: Warning notifications sent

  • 70% LTV: Margin call for additional collateral

  • 80% LTV: Automatic liquidation triggered

Important: Property ownership remains intact even if crypto is liquidated—only the loan balance is settled.

Why Clients Choose This Option

Beyond speed, crypto loans offer interest-only payments, no prepayment penalties, and qualification based on assets rather than income. Average loan size is $167,000, with projections exceeding $1 billion in 2025.

Understanding these mechanics helps agents confidently guide crypto clients through innovative financing options that traditional lenders can't match.