But now that I've committed to becoming an investor, I'd like to take action and do SOMETHING that will mean I'm working towards my goal.  

Now that my business has grown to the point that its fully stable I'm fully committed to getting into the real estate game.

I am committed to paying a mortgage at the end of this month.I am wondering if other investors are facing similar problems from hard money lenders.

My thinking would be to feel them out, possibly get a verbal commitment on site and get them to sign very soon after.

However if I can get 3 people to pitch in $6.00 I will consider spending $4 especially if what I want cost $20.00 the balance to be paid over time because there will then be 4 incomes committed to paying off the balance, directly or indirectly.The buy becomes a leveraged buy and the risks are better spread plus I will get the credit for paying more than I actually did.

B&H *can* be leveraged into a very small time commitment, depending upon your abilities, what you start with, and your abilities to leverage the talent of other people (PM companies, tradesmen, etc).

Honestly I don't feel very comfortable signing a 90 day commitment on such short notice.

This current tenant is from the neighborhood and is committed to making this work.

You can tell the tenant that he would need proof that the plumber committed the theft for you to even consider any action.  

I am not committed until i pay the earnest money, correct?