Mezzanine Debt

Mezzanine debt is subordinated financing between senior mortgage debt and equity — higher risk than senior debt, higher yield, typically secured by equity interests rather than real property.

What it means in practice

Mezz fills the gap between how much senior debt will lend (typically 60–70% LTV) and how much equity the sponsor can raise. Mezz rates typically run 8–15%. Mezz lenders take priority over equity but are subordinate to senior mortgage.

Why it matters for LA multifamily

LA multifamily value-add acquisitions sometimes use mezzanine debt to increase leverage and stretch equity. Less common on core stabilized deals. When senior lender terms tightened post-2023, mezz became more commonly used to fill capital gaps.

Related terms

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