I don't have any private lenders in my area, Help!

[Nicholas Tanner]

I am 18 and would love to begin investing in real estate, however, I am too young to get a credit card to use to build credit. Since I can't build credit I can't get a conventional loan from a bank. The only other option (that I am aware of) is private lending. I looked on Zillow and Bigger Pockets and can't seem to find a private lender in my area (Birmingham, AL). Is there any other options of lending out there? Thanks! You guys are awesome!

[Matthew Whitaker]

@Nicholas Tanner, first of all, congrats for getting in the business so early.

If I were in your shoes, I'd track down a mentor and study under them.  They could easily (now or in the future) give you access to capital to do deals.

Spending the next 6-12 months working for free for someone will give you tons of future value to your future investing self.

Don't be so quick to try to go at it alone. Slowing down and working for someone will make you MUCH more money in the long run - provided that someone is a savvy investor.

mw