Hi Rich,If you're just looking to diversify away from RE and into securities and want to get started without worrying about fees or stock picking, IMO the easiest place to go is Wealthfront.  

If the above is true, couldn't I just say the money is gifted?

There might be some ways to raise capital for a down payment (i.e. gifts, selling something...) but in most cases, I know in Connecticut, you can't use borrowed money for a down payment.  

Bryan be sure and send each one of those suggestions a $50 gift certificate to Texas Roadhouse!!!

Hey guys, I'm new to bp and in real estate in general and I really would like to know how to make an owner financing packet.There's a house that I have my eye on and I know the easiest way to acquire it would be either private financing or owner finance.

I have a house under contract in the name of my LLC. This is a solid neighborhood that I have bought and sold in several times. One of my competitors wants to buy it... Bad.  How can I sell it to her without coming to...

Your easiest path to acceptance with HUD is to buy the property in your personal name.

What is the easiest or most cost effective way to find someones phone number just by using their name and the city/state they are located in?

Look at your local real estate laws and see what the rules are for gifting property.

I think the reason we have had such success here in Modesto despite our total lack of skills (seriously, I can't hang a freaking picture) is our wonderful jack-of-all-trades handyman and a gift-from-the-universe plumber.