Another option is to look into some funds as well that allow smaller investments. some are anywhere from 500-$10,000 minimums and accept non accredited investors (through regulation a+).If you ran numbers of a loan paying p&i at 10% but ot being able to reinvest the principal payments you realize how low your returns actually are. so yes notes are great but also understand that idle money for any investment is not fun.

Illinois finally took the step to make it very clear you need a license to sell or market real estate you do not have title ownership to. those hiding behind  ( hey i am just selling a contract) that does not fly when run up the regulator flag pole. 

Learn the lawsDon't use a contract "off the internet", laws vary by state and are also regulated on a federal level Learn the financing techniques correctlyDon’t skip parts of the processDon’t ever do a “kitchen table” closingUse the proper deedAn attorney can help you with the legal work, but the rest you are on your ownYour guru will not bail you out“Investing” in someone else’s deal by providing a small 2nd loan so the “investor” can pay for “cash to the seller” and for “closing costs” so he can do the deal is a very bad planKnow what problems can ariseLearn the responses and solutions to problems before they are needed Know everything there is to know about Title and what that meansKnow who a "protected class" individual isLearn the "back doors"Learn human natureUnderstand timelinesUnderstand regulation enforcement (some of these "mistakes" have a 10 year statue of limitations ( they can charge you 10 years AFTER you do the transaction) and carry hefty fines and possible imprisonmentThe court doesn't accept "I didn't know" for an answer"Know that the source of the lead plays a serious role in some states and federallyKnow how much of a "profit" pushes the boundaries to invite an investigationYou can be sued by the seller if you don’t do things correctlyYou are automatically at fault if an investigator or attorney or regulator gets involved.

A single-family home or small multi-unit property can be a great way to dip your toes in the water.Build a Team: Even if you’re planning to handle most things yourself, having a good real estate agent, property manager (if needed), and a reliable handyman can make life so much easier.Learn the Local Laws: Pensacola is pretty investor-friendly, but it’s always good to know local zoning laws and short-term rental regulations if you’re thinking about Airbnb or VRBO.Run the Numbers: Make sure you’re clear on the property’s cash flow potential.

Mounting shelves, a TV, or other large items that requires screws, bolts, or anchors should be regulated by the landlord and charged to the tenant. 

To get started - I’d recommend connecting with local STR investors and researching Hawaii’s regulations.

A tax advisor specializing in real estate can help you navigate deductions, plan for 1031 exchanges, and ensure compliance with ever-changing regulations.

The primary risks at this point would be       1) to your lender, the risk of a margin call.       2) To you; underestimating the true cost of a project and cost overruns      3) To you; legal risk of securities regulations if you partner looses money. 

Technically, when raising funds under Regulation D or any other SEC exemption, there’s no strict requirement to utilize a Private Placement Memorandum (PPM).

To maximize returns, ensure compliance with local regulations, prioritize owning the land, and offer student-friendly amenities.