Finding and researching private lenders

[LaTonya Norseweather]

My name is LaTonya, I am new to Real estate investing. I have not yet done a deal. I was speaking to someone about funding and I was asked if I have collateral and I told him no. He then said that I would need to pay a $125 insurance fee because of that. I want to know is that standard procedure? He says he is a private lender for Sungold Financial Lending. How do I find out if he is legit? Please help. Can not afford to be scammed.