I would go for individual awnings, no need for an entire long covering.

Understand that there are two different kinds of "private" "lenders" ...The first are as you're probably thinking: individuals in the business lending out their own funds on hard-money terms.The second are lesser known / understood: people you already know - friends, family, neighbors, etc. - who would be willing to invest in your deals for a return on their money.

Any suggestions or trustworthy individuals?

You are very correct about them being jointly and individually liable for the balance of the lease.So, for me, I would just do a background check to make sure they aren't a felon etc.

You might want to read our series about “How to Screen a PMC Better than a Tenant”, since selecting the wrong PMC is usually more harmful than selecting a bad tenant: https://www.biggerpockets.com/member-blogs/3094/91877-how-to-screen-a-pmc-better-than-a-tenant-part-1-services-and-processes

GuysThis is sort of a continued post from the thread belowhttps://www.biggerpockets.com/...I have a few k1's with syndicate and ATM funds which have invested in many states (12 for me). I spoke to my local CPA and he ...

A great mortgage broker will help advise you, based on your individual situation. 

Fourth, start networking with local investors and like-minded individuals.

The private equity individual will be paid off at the time of refinance as well.All in, we purchased a six-unit apartment building in one of the best areas of Minneapolis with a total of ZERO DOLLARS out of pocket!

@Eric EckmanI am at equity trust, however other companies allow self directed IRAs with check writing.As others have said, you have pierced the bubble in not keeping your individual vs Ira separate.