So there is a good chance they just cut a deal with a vending company and aren't getting a big financial return anyway. 

So many people get hung on the one-time fee and they don't consider the yearly returns from their investment.  

IF you overpay a little on a buy and hold, the return might be a little lower, but over time you will pay down the mortgage, rents will go up and you will have capital appreciation. 

Based on the opportunity value of cash and the risk posed by having dead equity at risk to a market shift.All equity in the property is now only earning a return equilivant to the prevailing mortgage interest rates.

With crowdstreet you are InvestIng dIrectly wIth the sponsor so there is no middleman to take a cut so the returns I have found to be much better.

I found a flip property that is in a great location with potential to make a great return.

I would prefer a safe first investment with a lower return to high risk.

An individual (like a person who just wants a better return on their money in a CD, 401K, etc...) may have the same terms as a traditional hard money lender but I've found they have more flexibility. 

You're focused on something you want vs. what would give you the best return for your money. 

Typical returns are 9-12% plus points if you charge them.