how does the dodd-frank law apply to private money?

[Zach Pyke]

I've been investing in real estate (rental) for a while now and have recently looked into using private money lenders.  I was about to put an offer in on a house when my investor called me and told me that he was unable to give out loans on residential real estate because of my states somewhat recent compliance with the dodd-frank act.  I went by the title company and they told me that an individual is only able to owner-finance one house a year under this law as well.   Is there a way to get around this without my investor having to get a mortgage brokers license?  It seems that I can get around this by buying commercial real estate.  Would buying multi unit buildings fall under commercial real estate as per the dodd-frank act?