Hard Times & Hard Money

Hard money loans seem to have fallen off the radar, when a couple years ago it seemes you could ask a vagrant and they could tell you all about the subject.  If you can find a lender, hard money may yet remain a viable solution for investors looking to get into a property quickly with an eye to refi quickly.  As with anything, this service costs money.  A pretty penny at that.  Still, one needing quick alternative financing can do well to remember this solution.  Unlike in the past, however, I suspect people will be less inclined to abuse them, as speculative investors aren't in the mood to roll the dice like before.  Any thoughts out there?