Starting a hard money lending company makes sense to me since I have hundreds of contacts in this business that I've built relationships for years, as well as it aligns with my origination background. 

After securing a deal, your focus will shift to closing, finding tenants, and setting up efficient management.If you haven’t already, building relationships with local agents, contractors, and property managers in PA can save you a lot of time and hassle

What I wrote above does not create an attorney/client relationship between us.

And it will be a big asset when building credible relationships.

You'd be better off building a solid emergency fund and developing relationships with reliable local GCs.

Real estate is a relationship-driven industry, and learning from others' experiences will accelerate your success.This combination of strategy, education, and action will help you grow your $80K into a thriving real estate portfolio while ensuring financial security for your family.HOPE this helps!

The first rehab he led turned out nice, but at times was rough because we have a different relationship than most employee/employer.  

Establishing a relationship with a few of them locally or nationally [if you have a network] would be extremely beneficial.

Also, if you have a long-term relationship with a local attorney, they may offer a discount for repeat business.

You are describing it like you would a personal relationship.