Gradually transition to larger, higher-end projects as you gain confidence and expertise, balancing risk and reward.

I'm okay with having it out there for people that want to take advantage of my expertise in infill development that may want to partner however. =)

Don't try to short change the design team's fee when their expertise could get you out of a pickle and/or help immensely to speed up the process.

My perceived risk at the time whether, right, wrong, or indifferent, the reward for me just wasn’t there.

He’s at the mercy of someone else’s expertise, motivations, personal interests, perception, and knowledge.  

Originally posted by @Michelle Winberry:@J Scott Kim's analogy was about accessing an Experienced Mentor, if you get that free, awesome, if you don't have that luxury then an investor does what is appropriate, get one and pay for it....Just to clarify, in the business world, mentors are typically unpaid -- they are people you have a personal relationship with and who help you because they have a vested interest in your success, not in a monetary reward. 

Second, that their money was invested in highly speculative start up business deals that the sponsors had no background or expertise in.  

Good questions and not my area of expertise so I'm not going to pretend I have good answers there other than suggest talking to a good estate planning attorney and tax professional, because that's their area of expertise.

Being nice to lazy investors, just rewards bad behavior and doesn't push them to be more resourceful - and hence more successful.It is a free country though, so best of luck with your approach:)

I appreciate you taking time to share your expertise!