It's probably taken you quite some time to develop a level of aptitude through experience, and it's most likely, well deserved.

My thought was that since I was simply loaning him money and wasn't otherwise involved that that offered a level of protection as well.  

Maybe I’m wrong, but I doubt it.Again, I don't comprehend your ignorance level on some of this stuff as it is not top secret stuff, it's common knowledge for most brokers.... 

Quote from @Nathan Gesner: If I've said it once, I've said it a thousand times.Nathan, while what you state works 90%, when you reach a certain level you become a TARGET for predatory attorneys and professional plaintiffs.

It’s great to have someone with your level of experience and diverse background here.

The individuals I've met along the way that are really good at real estate are analytical, level headed, and disciplined.

Read: The millionaire real estate agent; Hyper Local Hyper Fast AgentWhat are some effective ways to network with individuals at all levels?

Slowly build out a repeatable process...if you continue to change things (as in different types of properties, different levels of renovation, different finish material, different neighborhoods, etc.) you create more variables and make it harder to solve to the problem.I am a math guy and less unknowns/variables you have the easier the problem will be to solve. 

@MikeLambert thanks for all the insight on Tulum I love the town and would like to purchase A condo For myself don’t care if it doesn’t make much money  but obviously would like a great location I am a dual citizen and want own property in MexicoI probably won’t stay there much if at all I just love to buy real estate one of my addictions 😂Searched online There are so many developments from $100k - $200k would be my comfort level if any of you guys have recommendations on location would appreciate it 

If you have been in lending since 2007, then you know that the level of fraud in deals has risen to a huge level.