In my experience, underwriting single family home rentals in California typically results in sub-4% unleveraged returns, which is awful given the alternatives. 

Alternatively, if you're wanting to do something more aggressive, you could consider a balanced fund, such as Vanguard's LifeStrategy Income Fund (VASIX), which is 20% Stocks / 80% Bonds.

Alternatively, anyone know of any genuine private lenders that are open to this?

Here in Michigan, it’s not as easy, so I’m exploring alternatives.

Are you suggesting this as an alternative to taking a period of time to save up the capital?

There are hardship withdrawal provisions and others that can be exercised if you meet the requirements. 3) If you have access to a workplace plan, like a 401k, with a Roth component, you can consider that as well. 4) If you setup your Roth with a Self-Directed IRA custodian, they can allow you to invest in assets like real estate, private lending, private equity and other alternative assets. 

I think it is easier to find a deal if you are house hacking since your deal doesn't need to be a home run; it just needs to be better then the alternative (paying rent).

It was super simple to do, and as long as you're personally guaranteeing the loan, you should be fine.Regarding your question, it's generally safer to pay the down payment from your personal account first, then transfer the deed to your LLC afterward.

Madison and Rankin county is much safer.

As an alternative you could look for a walk-out, lock-off basement and add a small kitchen/kitchenette down there to have your own space away from your housemates.