Simply put: private money lending allows you to act as the bank for other investors. Rather than directly purchasing assets, you get the opportunity to fund those owned by colleagues and partners. By now you likely realize how beneficial this set up can be. However, there are a few more things you should know before getting started. Read through the following tips before taking on your first deal as a private money lender:

• Start Out Small: Identify a range you are comfortable working with and stick to it. The number one mistake private money lenders make when starting out is spreading themselves too thin. Assess your finances and your preferred level of risk, and create clear guidelines for potential projects. If someone approaches you searching for more than you want to offer, do not be afraid to refer them elsewhere.
• Find A Good Attorney: Becoming a private money lender does not make you a lawyer. You will still need help when it comes to negotiating and reviewing contracts. Additionally, if you start a private money lending business there are several legal protections you need to have in place before getting started. Find a qualified real estate attorney in your area and bring them on to your team. Their role in your company will be invaluable over time.
• Work Locally: There are profitable real estate deals all over the country; however, there are also deals right under your nose. If you decide to start your private money lending business locally, you can meet face to face with investors. Additionally, you will likely be more available for communications and future investment options. Do not underestimate the potential of your own market, you never know what kind of deals may come your way. You can always expand in the future.
• Be Transparent: Avoid inflating your portfolio or background to attract potential investments. No matter what point you are at in your investing career, let your work speak for itself. You do not want to misrepresent yourself or your lending business. Always maintain transparency and stay true to your mission and values.
• Do not Forget About Yourself: Remember, just because you are not purchasing assets directly does not mean you are not an investor. Continue your professional and financial education even if you opt for the role of the lender. You still need to stay on top of market trends, financial news, and other factors impacting the real estate world. While you do not have a hands-on role in the investments you finance, you still need to have strong business acumen.
• Learn The Subject Matter: Review the types of borrowers listed above and familiarize yourself with the different deal types. Learn what factors go into a successful rehab, buy, and hold or rental property. That way when a borrower pitches a deal you know how to evaluate it for yourself. Obviously, they are going to paint the investment in a good light, but is it profitable? To be a successful private money lender it is crucial to understand exactly what goes on in the niche you choose to invest in.

Dennis Dahlberg
Broker/RI/CEO/MLO
Level 4 Funding LLC
Tel: 623-582-4444
Level4Funding.com

Private Hard Money Lender
Dennis@Level4Funding.com

Who is this Dude? Dennis brings with him substantial experience in residential real estate. Dennis has extensive experience purchasing, renting, and selling numerous homes over the past 45 years. His first purchase was a property in California when he was 18 years old.   Dennis graduated from California State University Pomona with majors in Computer Science and Business Management. He is a Licensed Mortgage Broker, Licensed Mortgage Originator, Licensed Real Estate Agent, Licensed Insurance Agent Certified Sort Sales Specialist (CSS), Certified Negotiator (CNE), and FAA Licensed Private Pilot.