They tell me it’s so easy to show individuals are behind them and can sue you if they wanted to.

You should also network and find top-producing agents and real estate individuals to learn from.

I've noticed the forums provide a wealth of knowledge from individuals investing in a wide variety of strategies and feel this is the best place to start.

@Ian Radcliffe Regarding your question, I think it depends on the individual.

I am using my own money, sitting in my checking account, and loaning it privately to individuals who I deem qualified to borrow it.  

Greetings,I am a 45-year-old individual seeking to expand my investment portfolio with additional properties.

This is completely up to you, If an individual came around with perfect credit and met your other income requirements I assume you would rent to that person.

I've been saying this for a while that I feel bad for the individuals who are just trying to get a piece of the pie(first time homebuyer). 

That individual now wants out of the year long lease.

We have had numerous Clients come to our property management team that were told their property was in great shape and basically move in ready only to have our property manager walk it and have a list of 20+ things they find that should be done before placing a tenant.