A lot of people don't even know some of the more creative properties you can buy with a VA loan (like mixed use or even a 6 unit apartment complex if you combine VA entitlement with another soldier).

For example, in the past you may have used your cousin (who doesn't sell any homes regularly) to help you find a home, that could have bitten you in the behind because something came up or was overlooked in the transaction which ended up costing you more than you planned. now that you are paying, you are hoping whoever you are dealing with is qualified.

I'm currently helping my cousin to buy their first add value property. 

Soldiers returned about the time I closed.

I have a cousin who is living in Medellin for many years  and he recently moved many of his assets to Panama.

Yes, with my cousin is a very successful realtor in Mexico City

Private lending is all over the map - could range from nearly being a bank underwrite to literally a handshake with your cousin Jim Bob.

I have a cousin in the US army as well.

My cousin (an experience investor) also offered to help me with the deal because he knows fear and lack of experience is holding me back.

Prior to starting my lawn care business, I worked my cousin since a very young age.