The Authoritative Guide to Private Money for Real Estate Investors by Jay Conner

***Guest Appearance Credits to: https://www.youtube.com/@jerryscarlato  "Becoming Resilient, Private Lending, and Your Money Mindset with Jay Conner" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-w-a6JPweUk&t=96s Real estate investing often requires substantial capital, and navigating the funding landscape can be daunting for both seasoned and new investors. In the recent episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner joins Jerry Scarlato in the Good Wolf Project podcast where they delve into the nuances of raising private money—a strategy that can redefine your approach to real estate investments.  Understanding the Difference: Hard Money vs. Private Money In the world of real estate, financing options are plentiful but can often be confusing. Jay Conner explains a common misunderstanding between hard money and private money. Hard money typically comes from brokers who pool and lend funds from individual investors, charging high interest rates and fees. This traditional route involves jumping through numerous hoops, including credit checks and financial disclosures, which can be time-consuming. Conversely, private money is a more direct transaction, where a real estate investor borrows money from an individual, cutting out the middleman. Here, the investor sets the terms, interest rates, and payment schedules, providing a more flexible and tailored financing option. This approach eliminates the need for borrowing from traditional banks or hard money lenders, offering more autonomy and speed in closing deals. Navigating the Challenges with a Resilient Mindset Real estate investing is not without its hurdles. During the conversation, Jerry and Jay highlight the importance of resilience when facing financial setbacks. Jay shares his experience during the 2008 financial crisis when he unexpectedly lost his line of credit with a local bank. This pivotal moment pushed him towards private lending, leading to a successful reevaluation and expansion of his business model. The key to overcoming challenges is adopting a proactive mindset. Rather than seeing obstacles as insurmountable problems, Jay emphasizes responding constructively and connecting with the right people who can facilitate solutions. This mindset shift from "victim" to "victor" is essential for navigating the volatile waters of real estate investing. The Power of Community and Mentorship Another critical element of success in real estate investing is surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals and mentors. Jerry and Jay underscore the transformative impact of joining mastermind groups and engaging in communities that foster collaboration and learning. Jay recounts how mastermind groups have expedited his success by providing access to a wealth of experience and insights from industry peers. Learning from seasoned investors and sharing experiences can significantly decrease the learning curve, preventing costly mistakes and leading to more informed decision-making. As Jay aptly puts it, "What got you here today will not get you there tomorrow." Building a Sustainable Strategy for Raising Private Money To successfully raise private money, Jay advises a strategic approach focused on education and relationship-building. By teaching potential lenders about the benefits of private lending and offering them a secure and appealing investment opportunity, investors can attract capital without resorting to high-pressure sales tactics. He demonstrates the power of seamless communication and structured programs in cultivating a network of private lenders eager to invest. Prospective investors can start small by hosting informational luncheons or one-on-one meetings to share insights about private lending programs. By