How do you become a broker for hard money lending? 

I've done and been a part of many Chicago zoning changes...they take a very long time and a lot of upfront money...unless you are planning to add multiple units and do a full renovation, the ROI is probably not there.

I also don’t have a problem spending the money to fight for this.

If we wanted to sell we could get our money back.

Explore my personal favorites, Set For Life by Scott Trench or The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, for invaluable financial insights.3.

B) I don't have to give the contractor any money upfront for anything.3.

.#2  MINDSET:  Just like some people will NEVER become real estate investors regardless of time, money, related profession, - MOST people will never become real estate investors.   

Maybe I'm no longer a low risk bond investor, maybe I'm parking my money in $VOO instead, CRE REITs, or perhaps higher risk higher return bonds. 

The lender may figure if the borrower had this kind of money they’d be making the mortgage payments. 

It’s a great way to add value to a property without putting a ton of money upfront, and it can set you up for financial success in the long run.Has anyone else done a similar renovation project or used a gift of equity in their deals?