At least more so than a set and forget style syndication.

ELS has reported quarter-over-quarter NOI growth for 20 consecutive years, including throughout the Great Recession.Blackstone is one of the largest, most sophisticated real estate and private equity investors in the nation.

Private money is the ticket to scaling upward fast.

More sophisticated techniques such as syndications and private money are beyond the scope of most mom and pop investors, though some do use partnerships. 

Should I go private lending?

Buyers do it that way and then transfer title to an LLC, they just hope the lender never notices.I suppose there's the BOM/private lending path, or seller financing. 

I am in an area with very low worker supply so the rate is $135-$150 a sq ft depending on style and niceties.

If you're open to doing Airbnb-style, short-term rentals, being near downtown on the east side or between Old Colorado City and Ute Vally Park on the west side are great locations, and the returns can be pretty great. 

I have a private money loan w/ a 1 year note for the whole 125k.

@Adrian EasterlingI don't hold any secrets, not my style.