I have found that many of my investors have been having issues with fraudulent private money lenders down here in Florida.With that being said, I was wondering what types of precautions can be taken when dealing with a private money lender.

Keep in mind the interpreter hasn't made payments on time under his fraudulent agreement and my client received several foreclosure notices during this period. 

But isnt that more of a speculation/gamble as opposed to tangible money?

It's a little bit of a gamble, but if it's a relatively small volume then you have more possibilities.Is there anything stupid about this strategy?

One thing I'm not sure of is location in this case, I suppose I could either look in a well established area and expect equity to increase through remodeling or in a less desirable area that I'm gambling will attract more attention in the future.

Playing the appreciation game can be like gambling, and if your house is really cash flowing well after all of your expenses and your mortgage payment I'm not sure if it makes sense to sell. 

If its negative cash flowing NOW and you don't have a ton of reserves to cover yourself long term for the HOPE/GAMBLE of the appreciation play, then its time to sell, cut your losses and move on

Some times it can work and the gamble pays off, unfortunately it usually does not.The numbers starting out look good enough to try you only lacked the experience to succeed.My advice would be to stay away from real estate.

I'm also entertaining the idea of staying put and just taking out a big HELOC, but my fear of getting stuck in this house and town is significant.....I don't gamble at all, and I don't watch sports.

I appreciate your comments about providing ongoing education but it seems even this is a real gamble.... at least for the renter.