ONLY postcards NO letters.No mailing list to buy, but no names or addresses on the postcard either.When the post office first came out with this, the list industry thought that this was the nail on the coffin after email.

This should save me money on my own future deals, while also helping me gain credibility within the industry and my local area as a serious real estate investor and deal maker.As for my professional background, I have been working as a freelance social media marketing strategist for 7+ years helping B2B companies generate and nurture high-quality leads on LinkedIn.

The industry is volatile and unpredictable, I count myself lucky to have made it this far, and don’t want to rely on this income in the future.

If you're looking looking to invest in larger commercial properties (multifamily, offices, industrial, etc) - personally or through a partnership/syndication - then you should be more concerned with the points raised by @Caleb Heimsoth.My article on choosing the right real estate market and avoiding the most common due diligence mistakes should help you get started. 

I have done extensive research regarding real estate and now finally ready to dive into the industry.

Can anyone offer advice or feedback on their experience on how they utilize their Solo 401k to lend money to real estate investors? 

The industry is about people and personalities...and other intangibles.

A property manager will charge a fee to place new tenants there....you're also going to have to carry utilities while the home is vacant.If the tenants are happy, let them stay and enjoy the revenue while you stash that cash to be able to re-invest it into the property after they vacate. 

It is just as important as the rental home you purchased.This Industry has to do with legal issues, and many lawsuits, and if you don't have the best to protect your investment, then you won't be in this business very long.I know, it seems silly to think that by investing in a financial software program verse Excel will make any difference at all, but it truly does to the person you want to borrow money from.

Regarding HOA, I would introduce yourself to the management company and they typically have forms to fill out such as contact information and where to send the bills.Typically your closing agent on the closing statement has the first month paid for on HOA FeesAlso - confirm what utilities are included in the HOA costs