Private lending. Where do I start?

[Jonathan Warner]

I've done a bit of research on the private lending space and I'm coming to the conclusion that it is the way I would like to enter the real estate space. I have significant enough assets and capital that I can make a few loans while still maintaining a healthy stock portfolio to keep my money working for me. 

I'm curious if you guys have any tips for me as a beginner. How do I get the ball rolling? 

Do I begin by getting a solid contract? 

Do I contact appraisers and local title insurance agencies to begin to find one that I could use? 

Or do I start by just getting my name out there and then get those pieces in place once I find a borrower? I'm assuming I should be somewhat prepared before doing this, as I don't want to come across as a "not serious" waste of time to any agents or borrowers.

Since I only want to lend locally, how do I get my name out there to start my search for borrowers?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

West