My Personal Journey: How Private Lending and Off-Market Real Estate Deals Transformed My Investing Game

Hey there! I’m excited to share with you the story of how I learned to become a real estate superhero using private lending and off-market properties. This article is based on an audio transcript I created from my own personal experience in the field. Whether you’re new to real estate investing or just looking for a fresh perspective, grab a snack and get ready to dive into a journey filled with fun, practical advice, and a dash of humor.

The Hidden World of Off-Market Properties

Imagine if you had a secret map to a hidden treasure. Not treasure chests full of gold coins, but houses that almost nobody else knows about. These special properties are what I call off-market properties. They’re not listed on big websites or the MLS (that’s short for Multiple Listing Service, the giant catalog of houses for sale). Instead, these are hidden gems—like secret levels in your favorite video game!

Why Off-Market Properties Are Special to Me

In my early days as a real estate investor, I discovered that the best deals were often the ones that weren’t advertised to everyone. Here’s why I fell in love with off-market properties:

• Less Competition: Since these properties aren’t in the spotlight, I didn’t have to compete with dozens of other buyers.

• Bargain Prices: Off-market deals often come with more wiggle room for negotiation. I was able to get houses at prices that seemed like secret discounts.

• Total Control: Buying off-market meant I was involved every step of the way—from the initial find to the final fix-up. I knew every little detail about the property, which meant fewer surprises later.

I always think of it like playing hide and seek—while everyone else is searching in plain sight, I know where the best spots are.

Private Lending: My Fast Pass to Real Estate Success

When it comes to buying houses, waiting for a bank to give you a loan can feel like waiting in a super long line for the latest roller coaster ride. That’s where private lending steps in. In my experience, private lending is like having a fast pass that gets you to the front of the line.

How I Discovered Private Lending

I was once in a situation where I had discovered a great off-market property, but time was ticking. Traditional bank loans just weren’t moving fast enough. I reached out to a private lender—a friend who believed in my vision. Sure, they charged a bit more interest in the first year (around 10%), but that was a small price to pay for the speed and flexibility I needed.

The Perks of Private Lending

• Lightning-Fast Funding: I’ve had deals where every minute counts. Private lenders helped me secure funds quickly so I didn’t lose out on opportunities.

• Flexible Terms: Unlike banks that have strict rules, my private lenders and I could agree on terms that suited both of us. It was a win-win!

• Getting in Control: With quick access to funds, I could jump right into buying the property and start the renovations immediately.

Yes, I did pay a little extra upfront, but the ability to seize a great deal fast made all the difference. It’s like paying a bit more for a fast pass at an amusement park—you get to enjoy the ride without the long waits.

My Step-by-Step Journey to a Successful Deal

Let me walk you through the process I follow every time I use private lending and off-market properties to score a deal. Think of it as following a treasure map, step by step!

Step 1: Hunting Down the Hidden House

Finding off-market properties isn’t like shopping at a mall—you have to search a bit harder. Here’s how I do it:

• Networking: I make it a point to build strong relationships with local real estate agents, wholesalers, and even neighbors. Sometimes, the best deals come from a friendly tip or a casual conversation.

• On-the-Ground Research: I drive around neighborhoods, look for “For Sale by Owner” signs, and check out local community boards. Often, a simple chat with someone in the area can lead to a golden opportunity.

Step 2: Securing My Special Money

Once I find a promising property, the next step is to secure funding through private lending:

• Finding the Right Lender: Over the years, I’ve built a network of private lenders who trust my judgment. When I have a deal in mind, I reach out to them.

• Agreeing on Terms: I work closely with the lender to nail down the details—yes, that might include a higher interest rate in the first year, but it’s all part of the plan for rapid action.

Step 3: Taking the Plunge and Buying the Property

Now comes the exciting part: purchasing the property and getting my hands dirty with renovations!

• Inspecting Every Corner: I make sure to inspect every nook and cranny of the property. It’s like being a detective, making sure I understand exactly what I’m working with.

• Planning Renovations: I create a simple, yet detailed plan for fixing up the property. Whether it’s a leaky roof, outdated flooring, or a creaky door, I list out what needs to be done and prioritize the repairs.

• Rolling Up My Sleeves: With everything in place, I start the renovation process. This is where my love for hands-on work really shines. I get to oversee every repair and improvement, ensuring the quality is top-notch.

Step 4: Building Equity – My Treasure Chest

Every fix-up I complete adds value to the property, which in turn builds my equity—think of it as adding more coins to my treasure chest.

• Measuring the Gains: I keep detailed records of every improvement made. Over time, the property’s value increases, and that difference is my hard-earned equity.

• Knowing the Property Inside Out: By working on the property from day one, I avoid any nasty surprises that might come from a property that’s been “fixed” by someone else. I know exactly what I’m dealing with.

Step 5: Refinancing for a Smoother Ride

After the property is renovated and its value has increased, it’s time to switch gears and refinance with a conventional lender.

• Evaluating the New Value: I get a professional appraisal to see how much the property is worth now. This step is like checking my progress after a big project.

• Shopping for Better Terms: With my newly built equity, I approach traditional banks for a refinance. Often, I can secure a lower interest rate and better repayment terms.

• Paying Off the Private Loan: Finally, I use the conventional loan to pay off the private lender. This transition not only stabilizes my finances but also sets me up for even more deals in the future.

The Benefits I’ve Experienced

Using private lending to acquire off-market properties has changed the game for me. Here’s a rundown of the benefits I’ve personally enjoyed:

Speed is Everything

Time waits for no one, and in real estate, it’s all about being quick. When a great off-market deal pops up, I need to act fast. Private lending gives me the funds I need almost immediately, ensuring I’m never late to the party.

Full Control Over the Process

Being deeply involved in every step—from finding the property to overseeing the renovations—means I have complete control. I don’t have to rely on someone else’s timeline or decisions. This control has been crucial in avoiding surprises and ensuring the property turns out exactly how I envision.

Building Equity Like a Pro

Every renovation I complete adds to the property’s value. With each fix, I’m not just improving a house; I’m building my financial future. This growing equity can be used for future deals, which is like having a secret stash of treasure ready to fund my next adventure.

Flexibility to Choose My Path

The beauty of private lending is that it’s not the end-all solution—it’s a stepping stone. Once I’ve renovated a property, I have multiple options:

• Refinance: Switch to a conventional loan with better terms.

• Keep It: Rent it out for a steady income stream.

• Sell for Profit: If the market is right, sell it and use the profits to reinvest in more properties.

This flexibility means I can tailor my strategy to suit the current market conditions and my personal goals.

Overcoming Challenges Along the Way

Now, no journey is without its bumps. I’ve faced my fair share of challenges, and I want to share these so you’re well-prepared.

The Cost of Speed

While private lending is fast, it can come with higher upfront costs, like that extra 10% interest I mentioned. It’s important to budget carefully and ensure that these costs won’t derail your overall plan. I always make sure to factor in these extra fees before jumping into a deal.

Managing Renovations

Renovating a property is hard work—more than just a walk in the park. It takes time, effort, and sometimes unexpected fixes. I’ve learned that being prepared for surprises (like a hidden leak or an outdated electrical system) is essential. Always have a contingency plan and some extra funds set aside for those “just in case” moments.

Refinancing Risks

The market can change, and waiting too long to refinance might mean missing out on the best rates. It’s a delicate balance between giving the renovations time to add value and seizing the moment to secure better financing. I’ve had to learn this balance the hard way, but each experience has made me a smarter investor.

My Daily Routine as a Real Estate Superhero

Let me paint a picture of what a day in my life looks like when I’m deep into a new deal. Spoiler alert: It’s never boring!

Morning: The Hunt Begins

I start my day early—after all, great deals don’t wait for anyone! With a hot cup of coffee in hand, I review emails and messages from my network. Sometimes, I get a tip about a hidden property that’s just hit the market. It’s like receiving a secret mission briefing that sets the tone for the day.

Midday: Securing the Funds

Around midday, it’s time to make some calls. I connect with my trusted private lenders to confirm funding. These conversations are always upbeat, with a mix of business and a friendly catch-up. I explain the details of the property I’m eyeing, and together, we nail down the terms. That quick conversation is what gives me the green light to move forward.

Afternoon: Getting Down to Business

In the afternoon, I head out to visit the property. I inspect every room, check for issues, and start planning the renovation work. This part of the day is like being a detective and a builder all rolled into one. I take detailed notes, snap photos, and sometimes even sketch out ideas right there on the spot.

Evening: Planning the Next Steps

By the time evening rolls around, I’m back with my team to review the day’s findings. We discuss what repairs are urgent, what can wait, and how best to schedule the work so that everything runs smoothly. It’s like putting together the final pieces of a puzzle. Every day is a learning experience, and every challenge solved makes me even more confident in my strategy.

Lessons I’ve Learned the Hard Way

I didn’t become a real estate superhero overnight. Along the way, I encountered some tough lessons that I want to share with you.

Trust Your Instincts

One of the biggest lessons I learned is the importance of trusting my gut. When I first started, I made a few mistakes by rushing into deals without doing enough research. Now, I always take a moment to think things through, check every detail, and ensure I’m making the best decision. If something feels off, I dig deeper until I’m sure.

Be Prepared for the Unexpected

Renovations rarely go exactly as planned. I’ve had days when I thought a repair would take a couple of hours, and it ended up taking the whole day—or even a week! Always have a little extra time (and money) in your schedule. It’s like packing a spare set of batteries for your favorite toy—always be ready for a surprise.

The Power of a Great Team

I can’t stress enough how important it is to have a reliable team. Over the years, I’ve built relationships with contractors, lenders, and other investors who share my vision. Having a team you trust makes all the difference when challenges arise. It’s like having your own team of sidekicks who always have your back.

Keep Learning and Adapting

Real estate is always changing, and I’ve learned that staying flexible and open to new ideas is crucial. Whether it’s adopting a new renovation technique or finding a different funding strategy, I make it a point to keep learning. Each deal teaches me something new, and every mistake is a stepping stone toward success.

Looking Ahead: My Future in Real Estate

As I reflect on my journey so far, I’m excited about what the future holds. Private lending and off-market properties have opened up a world of opportunities for me, and I’m constantly on the lookout for the next big deal. My strategy is simple: move fast, fix smart, and refinance later. This approach has worked wonders for me, and I’m eager to share it with anyone ready to take the leap into real estate investing.

Expanding My Portfolio

Every successful deal is a building block for the future. I use the equity from each property to secure better financing or fund new projects. It’s a cycle that keeps growing—each win leads to another opportunity. I see my portfolio expanding steadily, and with it, my ability to help others achieve their real estate dreams.

Mentoring and Sharing My Experience

One of the most rewarding parts of this journey is sharing what I’ve learned with other aspiring investors. I love hearing stories from people who are just starting out and seeing them take my advice to heart. Whether it’s through casual conversations, workshops, or even this article, I’m committed to helping others succeed. Remember, you don’t have to go it alone—there’s a whole community of investors out there ready to lend a hand (and sometimes, a little extra cash).

Final Thoughts: Becoming Your Own Real Estate Superhero

In closing, let me leave you with a few parting thoughts from my personal journey:

• Embrace the Speed: Don’t let slow financing hold you back. Private lending has taught me that sometimes, a little extra interest is worth the fast-track access to great deals.

• Take Control: By being hands-on from the start, you know exactly what you’re dealing with. It’s like having a backstage pass to your own success story.

• Build Your Treasure: Every renovation, every fix, adds to your equity. This isn’t just about making a quick profit—it’s about building a foundation for long-term financial freedom.

• Plan for the Future: Once your property is in great shape, refinancing with a conventional loan can set you up for even more success. It’s the smart transition from a fast, temporary boost to a stable, lasting foundation.

I started out just like you—curious, a bit overwhelmed, and ready to learn. Today, I can confidently say that private lending and off-market properties have been game-changers for my real estate investing journey. I’ve turned hidden houses into shining investments and transformed challenges into stepping stones toward success.

So, if you’re ready to step into your own superhero cape and make bold moves in real estate, remember: Move fast, fix smart, and sort the money stuff later!

You invest, and I’m here to help you do the rest.

Now, go out there, find your hidden treasures, and start building your own empire. Your journey might have its challenges, but with determination, a great team, and a clear plan, you too can become a real estate superhero. Happy investing!

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Meet our Team of Experts!

My team and I bring over 20 years of real estate experience, with deep roots in Florida’s investment scene. As a licensed MLO, I’ve helped close millions in loans and investor acquisitions. We’ve built strong relationships with wholesalers, probate attorneys, and sellers to source real deals—not just listings. My goal is simple: align your investments with your vision and deliver results that exceed expectations. Connect with Cody at https://graystoneig.com/cody

Hi, I’m Lisa-Kaye Price, Real Estate Lending Specialist at Graystone Investment Group. With 20 years of experience as both a licensed Realtor® and Mortgage Loan Originator, I specialize in helping investors secure smart financing for powerful real estate moves. Let’s connect and talk strategy! Connect with Lisa at https://graystoneig.com/lisa-kaye-price

Jay Michalec is the COO of Graystone Investment Group and a proud U.S. Army veteran. With 25 years in hospitality, Jay brings leadership, service, and operational excellence to real estate. He’s known for keeping things running smoothly and supporting both the team and clients every step of the way. 📅 Connect with Jay: https://graystoneig.com/jay