What's your syndication strategy?

[Brandon Malone]

Hi BiggerPockets family,

I have been in real estate (lightly) for the past seven or so years with a few rental properties. However, in the past three years, I've been approached by multiple friends that want to either partner with me or have funds they'd like to invest. So far, one of those individuals has a pretty large sum of money he's interested in investing with me to purchase real estate. I'd really like to grow what I've started, but I don't know where to begin in structing a syndication. In terms of partnership it's possible, but most of the people that have approached me, I'm more than certain will not really be hands on, leaving me to do most of the work.

Would appreciate some stories of how you began and best methods you structuring syndications and paying back investors that invested with you. Looking forward to some great responses.

Thanks

[Todd Dexheimer]

Do not go with the JV structure mentioned above, unless your partners will play an active role in the investment. If they are passive, this could spell disaster with the SEC or in court if things go south. Also, there could be huge tax implications if you get more ownership percentage than the amount of money you put in.

I suggest talking with a securities attorney that specializes in RE syndications.