Need feedback on finding a true private lender!

[Shaun Anderson]

I am becoming very frustrated. I am a Canadian, looking to buy my first property. I do not consider myself a newbie however as I have been learning and researching for some time. I had decided long ago to go the private money route, for many obvious reasons. I have found quite a few, messaged back and forth with a ton of them and have become very frustrated. I have been already scammed once (when I was starting out and very green) and swore I would never again pay upfront fees. Here is my question, in anyones experience is there legit private lenders that charge legit fees or should I run the other way anytime I see this? I have come across a few sites that were supposedly credible as far as having legit lenders yet, most all I talk with want some sort of upfront fee in the end!

Would love some constructive feedback on this!! I have properties I can offer on now and am only stopped by this obstacle!!

Thank you in advance!