Eric,, I think why people go for the fund model is the idea that they are spreading their money into multiple notes being held by the company.. while in theory this is great but as you noted you don't really have any security compared to being the beneficiary of the debt instrument IE debt is in your name. 

However, I've met great people in the real world who've shared with me that Bigger Pockets is an immense resource.

I tell people all the time: if you can't find a quality PM in a market, don't invest in that market!

The most successful people that I have heard on podcasts and met in real estate know that it is all about getting a single here and there and then going to get a homerun while doing those singles.

Again, if you learn some of the basics, you won't be so nervous about the problems you will eventually face.Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

I use Rentredi.I also use Paypal, Zelle, Venmo.I make it as easy as possible for people to give me money.I track it all in a spreadsheet for many properties.

Many people in the past few years that were simply raising money for funds or syndications, are now in serious legal trouble.

New to Real Estate and trying to find the best way to create leads and reach people about investment properties.

I always find it interesting how people start and what they learn from their first deal.

I do not hassle people with having to sign a separate agreement.Vrbo allows you to upload your rules and the renter agrees to these when they book.I just type my rules in the Airbnb listing.