They were upfront when I spoke to them but their clients are too busy to give a reference.

yes privately

yes privately

I personally invest in Columbus, Ohio because there is a lot of new businesses coming here such as an Intel, Wells Fargo, and Microsoft. 

I would focus on established markets that are still showing growth and have more than just one draw.Taking my main market of Tampa Metro as an example - There is more than just beaches, you also have MLB/NHL/NFL + Spring break and MLB Spring training, aquariums, golf, casino, new downtown development, and a lot of business travel.You want to avoid markets with just one draw, as if something happens to that draw, you will be hurting for who knows how long.

Having a separate account to hold security deposits is a good idea.Having another account for business operations is also a good idea.There is zero risk in opening a bank account and it doesn't take that long so you can do it now or do it later.Good luck

I don't think a VA construction-to-perm wholesale lender has ever even hit me up for brokered business.

You might be asking the wrong questions at Fidelity (not sure if they do or do not allow this), but you aren't technically investing directly in real estate, you are investing in private equity partnerships that are investing in real estate.They might not want you buying direct interests in real estate, but are okay with private equity investments.

We are looking at maybe asking hard money lenders or private money lenders if they’d want to come on as strategic partners, but we need suggestions.

We are looking at maybe asking hard money lenders or private money lenders if they’d want to come on as strategic partners, but we need suggestions.