In other words, the amounts are too small to start with.Furthermore, you risk losing your money, because of the fact that there is only a promissory note and no collateral at stake for these funds that you would be providing.Sorry, but in my view, this would be a recipe for disaster on your part.Initially, you mentioned peer-to-peer funding and frankly your model would do well in this arena, such as www.lendingclub.com as there would be a better chance of you recapturing your money although here again nothing is 100% guaranteed.Thanks for your thought provoking post.

Philosophy - what are the basic beliefs, values, aspirations, and ethical priorities7. self-concept - what are your major competitive advantage 8.

The buy houses guys don't do those.Their business model is based on high equity fixers.Many other suggestions to find that first opportunity I am sure.  

@Joel Owens' suggestion of a master lease + option fits this model.

My model would necessitate a price of $300k on your asset.

Virginia,I'm with Curt and Belinda, Frank and Dave's model is strong.  

In my business we tend to follow a particular business model.  

Not because I disagree, but because I think you're in such a place in your career/life that you don't quite fit in the general model; drop everything and jumping right in.After working with clients that were exactly where you are now 5-10 years ago, and what i see that is common between all of them is a strong advisory board.

We were two years ago, but our model has changed significantly to better serve our investors.

Even if they did know what they're doing why on earth would someone want to restrict their business model to investors in a single state when they're doing business online?