Unlike banks, which offer limited loan options, brokers have access to a wide network of lenders, including niche and non-traditional financing sources.Here’s what they do:Assess your financial situation to determine your borrowing power.Compare multiple loan products to find the most favorable terms.Negotiate rates and terms with lenders on your behalf.Guide you through the application process, ensuring you meet all requirements.Example: Suppose you have a lower credit score or unconventional income sources.

Quote from @Bob Schulte: I’ve seen plenty of private money lending stories go south, and it’s definitely a topic worth discussing.

I'm planning to put in my first offer on my first rental on a SFH in Kansas City in the next day or two.$140k offer8% interest rate20% down8% management fee5% vacancy5% maintenance 5% cap exI haven't gotten insurance costs yet but it's been suggested that I plan for $2k per year. 

A successful rental property should offer positive cash flow, meaning your rental income should exceed your monthly expenses (mortgage, taxes, insurance, maintenance, etc.).To find the right tenants, ensure the property is priced competitively within the local rental market.

If you would really like to explore the sector : why not go and message 10 to 20 operators and offer to look after their property or clean their property for a month in exchange for their knowledge and details on the numbers.

When you can access the opportunities first, you can qualify the lead first, analyse and find the best deals first, reach out and build rapport first , offer your solution first (rather than having your offer thrown on a pile of others the individual has already been given) and so on.

No need to go through all that work, expense and permits for gas (unless the utility or state is offering a grant). 

Some lenders offer creative solutions, like a cross-collateralized loan, where they use your existing equity as security without refinancing the duplex.Another idea is partnering with private lenders or exploring a second-position mortgage, depending on your lender's terms.

Do you offer mentorship/coaching in real estate investment?

Quote from @Melanie Baldridge: Why I like investing in real estate more than 401(k)s.Both offer tax deferrals, but here's the difference:If you're making pre-tax contributions to your 401(k), then withdrawals = ordinary income tax.With real estate gains, you're paying capital gains tax (which is typically lower).Plus, RE investors get:1.