I'm aware that people privately lend to other people and investors all the time, but I'm asking more in the context of the legality of making an effort to seek out investors and loan to them. 

It just seems like it simply doesn't work.For example, I just listened to podcast 295 with Melissa from Lead Propeller, so I was feeling kinda stoked about getting leads online. 

She either qualifies or she doesn't, you offer her housing if she does, and move on to the next applicant is she declines or is not qualified.Commute times and other ancillary details like that are not really your concern (though commuters are not a protected class, so I suppose you could legally make commute time a screening requirement if you were so inclined). 

(It's a legal and copyright protection thing.)If you go to the Events Page (www.biggerpockets.com/events) you should get a list of meetups that are near you.

You legally don’t have a foot to stand on

I'm just trying to understand the general situation, not looking for legal advice or an answer in a specific situation at this point. - standard disclaimers about questions apply.Thanks very much.sw

It’s cheap and fast and online.

You pay a local licensed contractor wIth a good reputatIon to accompany you for a second look .have him look over all the structure and systems etc.. have him do quick quotes on issues he sees on a legal pad as he’s walking through each room have him check the wiring the roof the furnace the plumbing .

Ask how it's being advertised and look online to see if you can find the ads.

I know some states require a broker's license to be able to legally manage properties owned by other people.