We were able to refi and pay private lender back, but no cash was able to be pulled out. 

You can't invest in real estate directly or private lend with a stock brokerage.

Steve: If you are going to bid on an Ohio Common Pleas Court  foreclosure, the process is pretty safe because the foreclosing lender has to include a "PJR" which is actually a "Preliminary Judicial Report" which is a title report and include a commitment for title insurance should the bidder be successful and the property to be conveyed.This differs from a liquidation auction by a lender, private auctioneer, receiver (other than an actual foreclosure case) where you might be successful but the property has pre existing liens that don't get swept away by the foreclosure case.For your first one of these, get a lawyer to advise you.

Hi Julio,Depending on how many properties you own/Value of said properties and your loan balance.There are some private lenders willing to blanket 2nd position loans if the LTV they are at feels safe.

To be a reliable and successful Private Money Lender, focus on building strong relationships with borrowers and real estate professionals, thoroughly assess each investment opportunity by conducting due diligence on the property and the borrower's financial background, and establish clear lending criteria to mitigate risk.

Private investment in these projects seems like a challenge as I can't see how they'd get paid back on their principal. 

I've been in the hard/private money space working as an originator for coming up on 6 years now. 

Rents After Moving Out: $3,300I was able to secure a private loan for part of my down payment, as well as have my parents co-sign on the loan (I am extremely fortunate and grateful). 

I'm currently looking to acquire more deals and would appreciate any tips on finding legitimate private lenders.

Size and private bathroom can change that variable.