You can pre-screen them for free, then run the credit/criminal background only for those that pass your initial review so you're not wasting time.

Be sure to explore all around the forums as well as many of the FREE tools that Bigger Pockets provides.I am on the lending side of things and am always happy to hop on a call to discuss loan options that are out there, even if not offered by my resources.

Welcome to bigger pockets!

@Grant ShipmanIn my experience with these units are very difficult to manage and people at the 30% level also create a new set of problems.

I'll add on to the mix.

It's generally fairly hard to convince someone to lend you a private loan if you have no experience investing.

Unless you have their contact info and are comfortable reaching out, Honestly handing them off to the local police station is probably your best bet.take pictures, and record any communications with the authorities to cover your butt.

There are many ways to approach this and they all work as long as you commit 100% to your REI business. 

Single family to multi family makes huge difference down the road, are you familiar with lending regulations for purchasing a single family first then trying to buy a multi after?  

Looking forward to connect