I work with a large capital fund that has some pretty impressive deals, happy to meet investors and see how we can work together. 

I own multiple properties in the Caribbean and not a stranger to foreign deals and owning foreign assets.

I'd like to free up some cash so that I'm ready to close on the next great real estate deal that I track down. 

Every lending opportunity is going to be different, with larger deals requiring more information.

Not all units have it but we got a good deal with our vendor and 1 bug complaint can cost hundreds so our owners were on board as well.

With that being said, you can build a successful STR if you win on two fronts (to simplify it)The real estate side and the hospitality side (operations).The real estate side is buying a very good deal in a market that has a history of vacation rentals in my opinion. 

Share your strategies, experiences, and tips for crafting private money deals that deliver results!

The insurance policy is likely to provide you with far more protection.Be careful you don't create a self-dealing situation with you and your management company, which is really you.

If not, how do people typically get started with their first deal?

I see them as huge opportunities but not talked about a lot.Well REO's have gone down to to lower foreclosure rates. drawbacks are banks are very low and non responsive, unless its not a traditional bank and a private lender then you could possibly get a better deal.