Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

@Marc Winter - I'm following this conversation.

Is this true everywhere or is it possible to provide a private lender with a 2nd on the mortgaged property as collateral?

I'll post my experience and Q&A's from the conversations with the various SDIRA custodians.

Researching private and hard money lenders online, all lenders want a house under contract before releasing funds, however, working with a realtor, they want proof of funds prior to showing a house, let alone putting one under contract.

I know of the traditional routes of going through a bank but I don't believe that is the best option, so I know there are private and hard money lenders but how do I go about finding them and presenting potential deals?

I have read about investing without using my own money so would I need a private lender to finance the whole deal? 

I'm not really a rehab person but I'll help where I can.Though I would suggest starting your own thread instead of continuing conversation here.

The people you meet at these meet ups are already doing what you want to do so its so much easier to relate and hold conversations.

@Kevin Pruitt sent you a private message 😊