If you're a sophisticated, deep-pocketed investor who can go toe-to-toe with them and use them as one of many sources for your deals, then by all means, go for it.If you are a first-time or inexperienced investor, an out-of-state investor, an investor working with limited liquidity (under $1M) ... don't get near these people, they're out of your league.

Personally I would change the "new small business" to "local business"New and Small makes you sound inexperienced, and lack of experience is cause for concern.