DM if you want me to guide you on choices for your borrowers. 

Do yourself a favor: buy "Every Landlord's Legal Guide" by NOLO.

But would I feel competent performing surgery on someone without an expert's guiding hand?

Quote from @Bobby Burris: Here's a guide that describes what good cash flow looks like and how to analyze a property.https://www.biggerpockets.com/blog/rental-property-cash-flow...Read a few books on real estate investing to learn the power of leverage.

The only exception I make for puppies is if it is an actual service animal providing a specific service (such as diabetes dogs, or guide dogs) that will be going through specialized training.

I've been reading a few note guides, and came across the concept of using your note as collateral for another loan.

If I’m guided in the right direction I’ll outwork the next guy !

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

If you don't like the answers, find someone who knows what they're talking about and can guide you.

Happy to connect to learn your personal preference and goals, as well as the professional/RE ones, and help guide you towards a location that would be conducive for both aspects.