REI Central is Thursday night of this week (2/6), and there are a few other local meetups as well. 

This is extremely unfortunate and I think the name does not match their product, but there will be many others out there that do the same - so what can we take and learn from this as well?

Most importantly, learn how to manage it well so you don't squander your investment.

Sounds like either some of the information provided may have been exaggerated or changed, or possibly you could have been dealing with an identity theft situation as well.

My strategy incorporates asset protection measures like LLCs, specific trusts as well as professional property management to spread risk and ensure quality operations.As well as using tax codes to my benfiitSection 179, IRC Section 162, Cost Segregation and Bonus Depreciation and later 1031 them out for larger projects. 

Hard money is lending based on the hard asset and it doesn't speak well when the project is mid-process and now more money is needed to be able to finish it.

@Cosmo DePintoThe BRRRR is alive and well.

if you were only going to rent out a portion of the house as an STR that portion would have to be worth more than your exchange as well.

Your strong foundation in the stock market and tech background positions you well for success in real estate investing.

Reducing risk requires at least some time spent in research and involvement in a deal.There are many other things you learn along the way as well.