I am having trouble figuring out whether to go with a hard money lender, or a conventional loan for my first rental property.

I'm guessing the lender will require 6 months of insurance and taxes up front at closing for an investment property which will drive the closing costs up considerably. 3.

If lenders cannot collect the shortage this is allowed as your debt was eliminated.

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

I work with a lender that will do loans as low as 50k. 

After speaking with Lender, their requirement is experience doing Ground Up construction.

Since their lender has already talked to you talk to them more to find out how solid they are.

Dang Bro, you should have checked a lender before you started construction. 

Assuming a private lender should compete or charge at the same level as a conventional lender or a HML is an incorrect assumption.

I'm a software developer and very good with a spreadsheet and all, but I'm wondering if I could secure an experienced lender who not only can lend, but also provide advice on a deal like this from having financed similar situations before.Pointers to financial calculators for such an endevour and hotel/motel renovation-style lenders & contacts appreciated.Thanks,Matthew