finding private money

[George Mealy]

Hello, 

I been studying real estate investing for a few months, I'm also a former realtor. Finding properties are very simple for me. My business plan is very detailed and well thought out, I feel like I'm ready to make my 1st investment. Unfortunately I been asking family, friends for cash to fund my 1st deal and they either don't have the cash or want to wait until I do a couple deals etc..... My strategy is going to start with flipping properties using hard money lenders for financeing. But I need some skin in the game as they call it. What are some places/ways to find private money to start my real estate investment business ?