Seasoned MF Investors: Bringing a newbie in on a deal?

[Asa Hunt]

Hey Bigger Pockets! I recently committed to becoming a MF investor and, ideally, I'd like to be part of an apartment complex deal within the next 6 months. Not as the primary syndicator, but as more than a passive investor. I'd like to ride shotgun to get as much exposure to all aspects of the process as I can.

But I'm an ardent believer in adding value to relationships and doing everything you can as an individual to set yourself up for success. So my question for the experienced investors is, what would it take for you to mentor a newbie on a deal you're doing? Is being a passive investor enough? Or maybe taking a smaller or non-existent piece of the pie in exchange for helping out wherever needed? Helping raise funds? 

Any input is appreciated, as it will help shape my approach of starting my investing career!

[Theo Hicks]

Hi Asa,

As the term implies, you are a passive participant in the deal, which means you do not have control over any aspect of the process. However, there are a few benefits of being a passive investor on a larger deal that will help you eventually syndicate your own deals, with the foremost being the access you have during the contract to close period. Typically, there is some sort of conference call or webinar where the syndicator presents the investment offering, which will be a learning experience in and of itself. At the same time, you should be able to ask the syndicator any questions you have about the deal, but don't overdo it.

Other things you could do are:

1. Paid mentorship with an experienced syndicator
2. Find a syndicator, identify a need they have and proactively fulfill it for free. Do a good enough job and you may have yourself an internship!
3. As you mentioned, raise funds for a syndicator