Can anyone recommend a reputable hard or private money lender?

[Account Closed]

I am having a hard time finding a hard/private money lender that actually seems legit. I've tried working with Do Hard Money before and it was a terrible experience. Overall they just seemed very sketchy.

My ultimate goal is to buy a small apartment building, so I would like to start buying, fixing, and flipping cheap single family homes until I have enough saved for a large down payment on an apartment building. I have enough saved right now for a 20% down payment for my first flip (looking for about $40k all together including purchase + rehab costs).

I'd love to get as much input from you guys as possible. Hopefully someone can recommend me a legit hard money lender or put me in touch with a private lender in the Cleveland area!