I like to calculate all cost I have into property and if my cash flow will not replenish my funds into property in 5 years or less then it is a no go for myself. 

Such as paying your state taxes to a ‘charitable’ fund in the state of CA to be able to deduct your state taxes as a charitable deduction not subject to a 10k cap instead of as taxes paid.

Your property could become a super-fund site right along with the gas station.To me, #1 is a minor factor, if a factor at all.

Starting funds, 0. 

We are currently looking for people to network with that come across companies in need of a fund raising vehicle.

This is good for them in that it keeps there money out to play and good for me in that I know their funds will likely be available for deal #2:)!

We all have hedge funds/investors with an almost insatiable appetite for these loans and nearly every lender I know sells all, most, or some of their paper.Just a heads up that a local "big bank" is just as likely to sell your loan as I would be.

If they do not understand the market, regardless of the purchase price, you'll hard pressed to find a non-local lender to fund the deal unless they are Fannie / Freddie sponsored.

@Eddie Starr Seems you're developing a great process to tapping into funds.

Diversify with real estate and some mutual funds so you have some reserves.