Based solely on my experience, I recommend them as a reputable lender.

For those that have never used IRC before or do not have an IRC client, you can find a good comparison matrix of available clients here or use a web client like KiwiIRC to connect (ex: https://kiwiirc.com/nextclient/#irc://irc.snoonet.org/##realestateinvesting).  

It takes time to build up the reputation, even in a popular area like Sedona.Sedona does have a ton of STRs but it sees in the neighborhood of 5m visitors a year so I wouldn't worry too much.Getting on VRBO is a must IMHO.

I think it developed some sort of reputation for being "haunted", and folks reserved a stay there for that reason.I built a new cabin in its place, and so far, no ghost tales

Given this is your first investment endeavor, I would highly recommend going with an experienced and reputable management company that will mitigate your risk when the not-so-fun parts of property management arise.

NO reputable lender asks for funds upfront besides appraisal fee.Have heard MANY horror stories related to upfront fee lenders and it rarely ends well.

If you go with the new I’d really look into the reputation of the builder and see if you can get some references and then contact them and ask questions about anything and everything you can think of.

I am new to the industry but am focused on long term goals and wanting to build a team of reputable individuals where we can all bring each other value and make some great money together. 

You want to establish a reputation for our properties going down the assembly line consistently.

I suggest using BiggerPockets' "Find a Lender" tool to find a reputable hard money lender.