We put them to the test with an office warehouse 3 building 40,000 sq ft syndication 2 years ago and they performed as they stated.When utilizing local lenders who keep the loan in their portfolio, you CAN negotiate on rate BUT I find it much better to pay 1/4 to 1/2 point above the absolute minimum and obtain these other advantages instead.  

As for the construction of the park, the plans will be put out for bid as a negotiated job upon completion, and we will be using a third party, general contractor to perform the work.

>Seems to me that at scale, a portfolio like Luka's would indeed build wealth over timeIt is cash flow negative in a market that has an appreciation rate (2.17%) for this century below the inflation rate.https://www.neighborhoodscout.com/oh/cleveland/real-estatehere are some thoughts about your plan: - why perform a value add in a market where the value add does not add much value especially if the property will be acquired at no cost?  

Your best bet is definitely going to be a small credit union or regional bank in that area. 

did they have you fill out a notarized affidavit that said you were self performing the work?

If you want formalized training, your best bet is to take a course and then network like crazy to get in the orbit of other successful syndicators so that you can see how they operate.Here are some resources:Value Hound Academy with Craig HaskellSyndication and Crowdfunding WorkshopGene TrowbridgeJillian Sidoti

It depends on: (like you eluded to) whether you are buying 1sts or 2nds, whether you want NPLs or performing notes, whether you want the property, whether you buy CFDs, whether you can wait 18 months for a foreclosure, etc.

I'd be willing to bet the cost of repairs will be a lot higher than just the roof. 

Repairs vs. capital expenditures.Find out how long the provider has been doing cost segregation studies and how many they have performed.

If you can coordinate your purchase with the Menards 11% off Rebate Match that is tour best bet.