One way would be to identify some hard/private money lenders in your area.

Lots to learn and as an agent you can see the thinking that might go on in the minds of investors, investors can provide you a great customer base as an agent.

Google search and craigslist have helped me find a few lenders but also a few con men.Even my private lender wants me to fund 10% + closing costs.Is there some kind of way to make the original scenario work?

If you have a hardmoney lender or private funding or even money in the bank yourself a letter showing proof of funds from the financier will do.Kudos,Mary

They tell the customers what their top dollar is for the item in question because they as a business HAVE to make a profit on it.

A couple of these friends have stated that they would be interested in investing from a private lending standpoint, but do not have the time to "mentor" a new investor, or the experience to invest in RE themselves.

Have the same questions on how to structure deal with private money for down payment and finance the balance

Looking for networking, partnerships, private money, etc.

Looking for networking, partnerships, private money, etc.

One of my customers, who has been buying rentals since 1990, says that he tears the guts out of every toilet he installs (even the new ones) and has NEVER gotten a call about a leaky toilet.