Raising Private Money with Jay Conner

If you want to level up your real estate business and build lasting wealth, then learning how to creatively leverage private money is a game-changer. In a recent episode of “Raising Private Money,” Jay Conner sat down with Derek Dombeck, an expert with decades of experience in private lending, creative deal structuring, and wealth-building through real estate. Together, they unpacked practical strategies and mindset shifts that have helped Derek successfully structure thousands of deals while helping investors and sellers alike.Below, we’ll break down the top insights and actionable lessons from their conversation.Creative Deal Structuring: More Than Just FinancingDerek emphasizes that creative deal structuring isn’t just about finding different ways to fund a property; it's about using every tool at your disposal to solve people’s problems.For instance, many think that approaches like “subject to” (taking over a property’s existing financing) or seller financing are inherently creative. For Derek, those are just the basics. True creativity comes from recognizing the unique needs of the seller, the condition of the property, or the investor's goals, and then combining multiple strategies for a win-win outcome.Real-World ExampleDerek shares a deal where he purchased a property with existing bank debt (“subject to”), arranged for the seller to carry a second mortgage (sometimes at 0% interest), and leveraged private money in a third mortgage position to fund renovations. Each participant was protected and incentivized: the seller got steady principal paydowns, the private lender earned double-digit returns (including a share of profits through a “participating note”), and Derek maximized his leverage without overexposing anyone.The Power of Participating NotesA major gem from Derek’s toolbox is the “participating note.” Unlike traditional notes that just collect interest, participating notes allow private lenders to receive a share of the profits when a flip is complete or the property sells.This approach has several benefits:Aligns interests. Lenders are invested in the success of the project.Boosts returns. Lenders can potentially earn more than a flat interest rate.Eases cash flow. With interest accruing and some payments deferred until exit, it helps investors better manage project costs during rehab.The paperwork is straightforward: terms detailing profit splits and payout triggers are included in the promissory note—not buried in side agreements—ensuring transparency for all parties.Multiple Offers: Meeting Sellers Where They’re AtDerek’s approach to negotiations is all about options. Rather than pushing a single offer, he sits with sellers and outlines a menu:All-cash, quick-close offers.Seller finance with interest at a higher purchase price.Full-price (or higher) offers with 0% interest, paid out over time.Lease options or creative “installment” arrangements.This empowers sellers to choose what best meets their specific needs. In practice, many sellers are drawn to the financial advantages of terms deals—often netting more money over time, especially if they can take 0% interest and avoid a big tax hit.Equity Cushion and Risk ManagementNo matter how creative the structure, Derek never skips prudent risk analysis. He focuses on maintaining a healthy equity cushion—typically borrowing no more than 65% of after-repair value for flips, and up to 80% for longer-term rentals. This ensures there’s enough margin for error, market shifts, or unexpected expenses, keeping both lenders and the project secure.Building Relationships & Educating Private LendersAt the core of Derek’s strategy is education and open communication with private lenders. Explaining unique deal structures, being t

If you want to level up your real estate business and build lasting wealth, then learning how to creatively leverage private money is a game-changer. In a recent episode of “Raising Private Money,” Jay Conner sat down with Derek Dombeck, an expert with decades of experience in private lending, creative deal structuring, and wealth-building through real estate. Together, they unpacked practical strategies and mindset shifts that have helped Derek successfully structure thousands of deals while helping investors and sellers alike.Below, we’ll break down the top insights and actionable lessons from their conversation.Creative Deal Structuring: More Than Just FinancingDerek emphasizes that creative deal structuring isn’t just about finding different ways to fund a property; it's about using every tool at your disposal to solve people’s problems.For instance, many think that approaches like “subject to” (taking over a property’s existing financing) or seller financing are inherently creative. For Derek, those are just the basics. True creativity comes from recognizing the unique needs of the seller, the condition of the property, or the investor's goals, and then combining multiple strategies for a win-win outcome.Real-World ExampleDerek shares a deal where he purchased a property with existing bank debt (“subject to”), arranged for the seller to carry a second mortgage (sometimes at 0% interest), and leveraged private money in a third mortgage position to fund renovations. Each participant was protected and incentivized: the seller got steady principal paydowns, the private lender earned double-digit returns (including a share of profits through a “participating note”), and Derek maximized his leverage without overexposing anyone.The Power of Participating NotesA major gem from Derek’s toolbox is the “participating note.” Unlike traditional notes that just collect interest, participating notes allow private lenders to receive a share of the profits when a flip is complete or the property sells.This approach has several benefits:Aligns interests. Lenders are invested in the success of the project.Boosts returns. Lenders can potentially earn more than a flat interest rate.Eases cash flow. With interest accruing and some payments deferred until exit, it helps investors better manage project costs during rehab.The paperwork is straightforward: terms detailing profit splits and payout triggers are included in the promissory note—not buried in side agreements—ensuring transparency for all parties.Multiple Offers: Meeting Sellers Where They’re AtDerek’s approach to negotiations is all about options. Rather than pushing a single offer, he sits with sellers and outlines a menu:All-cash, quick-close offers.Seller finance with interest at a higher purchase price.Full-price (or higher) offers with 0% interest, paid out over time.Lease options or creative “installment” arrangements.This empowers sellers to choose what best meets their specific needs. In practice, many sellers are drawn to the financial advantages of terms deals—often netting more money over time, especially if they can take 0% interest and avoid a big tax hit.Equity Cushion and Risk ManagementNo matter how creative the structure, Derek never skips prudent risk analysis. He focuses on maintaining a healthy equity cushion—typically borrowing no more than 65% of after-repair value for flips, and up to 80% for longer-term rentals. This ensures there’s enough margin for error, market shifts, or unexpected expenses, keeping both lenders and the project secure.Building Relationships & Educating Private LendersAt the core of Derek’s strategy is education and open communication with private lenders. Explaining unique deal structures, being t

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@therealestatejam6159 "Episode 207: How to Raise Private Money w/ Jay Conner"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QE1NqIsAgpY If you’ve ever wondered how seasoned real estate investors scale their businesses, survive economic downturns, or manage to snap up deals other investors miss out on, the answer is often simpler (and more within your grasp) than you might think: private money. In this episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner, the Private Money Authority, recently joined JD and Melissa invited and shared his journey and blueprint for raising and leveraging private funds for real estate investing.The Journey from Traditional Lending to Private MoneyJay’s story began just like many aspiring investors: relying on traditional banks to fund his real estate deals. For the first six years, banks defined all the rules—from interest rates to the types of projects they could undertake. However, everything changed in January 2009, when Jay’s banker abruptly shut down his line of credit in the midst of a global financial crisis. With deals under contract and profits on the line, Jay faced a challenge: how can you continue investing without the backing of traditional lenders?The turning point came when Jay reached out to a friend who introduced him to the concept of private money—raising capital directly from individuals who are looking for secured, high-return investments, often leveraging self-directed IRAs. Within just 90 days, Jay raised over $2 million, tripling his business and freeing himself from the constraints of traditional financing forever.The Mindset Shift: From Begging for Money to Offering OpportunityOne of Jay’s core messages is the importance of approaching private money with the right mindset. “You’re not asking for money or begging for favors. You’re providing an opportunity for people to put their money to work, with great returns and security.” In the podcast, Jay explains that desperation has a smell. Instead of asking for a favor, you educate potential private lenders about your program, show them how it benefits them, and let them make the choice. This “teacher hat” approach shifts the conversation from a sales pitch to a value proposition.Jay outlines a simple “great news” script: when you have a deal and a lender ready, you simply inform them you can now put their money to work, outline the property and terms, and provide wiring instructions. The key is separation—teach the private lending program first, get them interested, and only later present the specific deal. This builds anticipation and trust, ensuring both parties are aligned.Who Can Be a Private Lender?A common misconception among new investors is that you need wealthy, well-connected friends or family. Jay disagrees: your future lenders are everywhere—your social circles, business groups, and even acquaintances of acquaintances. He encourages investors to make a list of everyone they know, and then expand through business networking organizations such as BNI (Business Networking International) or real estate meetup groups. Additionally, existing private lenders (who often frequent self-directed IRA companies’ networking events) are looking for new investment opportunities.Securing Win-Win DealsTrust and security are the bedrock of private money. Jay emphasizes the importance of always securing your loans with real estate (never unsecured), naming lenders on insurance and title policies, and never borrowing more than 75% of the after-repaired value (ARV). If something goes wrong, the lender’s money is protected by the property’s value, not just the borrower’s promise.Communication and integrity are vital.

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@therealestatejam6159 "Episode 207: How to Raise Private Money w/ Jay Conner"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QE1NqIsAgpY If you’ve ever wondered how seasoned real estate investors scale their businesses, survive economic downturns, or manage to snap up deals other investors miss out on, the answer is often simpler (and more within your grasp) than you might think: private money. In this episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner, the Private Money Authority, recently joined JD and Melissa invited and shared his journey and blueprint for raising and leveraging private funds for real estate investing.The Journey from Traditional Lending to Private MoneyJay’s story began just like many aspiring investors: relying on traditional banks to fund his real estate deals. For the first six years, banks defined all the rules—from interest rates to the types of projects they could undertake. However, everything changed in January 2009, when Jay’s banker abruptly shut down his line of credit in the midst of a global financial crisis. With deals under contract and profits on the line, Jay faced a challenge: how can you continue investing without the backing of traditional lenders?The turning point came when Jay reached out to a friend who introduced him to the concept of private money—raising capital directly from individuals who are looking for secured, high-return investments, often leveraging self-directed IRAs. Within just 90 days, Jay raised over $2 million, tripling his business and freeing himself from the constraints of traditional financing forever.The Mindset Shift: From Begging for Money to Offering OpportunityOne of Jay’s core messages is the importance of approaching private money with the right mindset. “You’re not asking for money or begging for favors. You’re providing an opportunity for people to put their money to work, with great returns and security.” In the podcast, Jay explains that desperation has a smell. Instead of asking for a favor, you educate potential private lenders about your program, show them how it benefits them, and let them make the choice. This “teacher hat” approach shifts the conversation from a sales pitch to a value proposition.Jay outlines a simple “great news” script: when you have a deal and a lender ready, you simply inform them you can now put their money to work, outline the property and terms, and provide wiring instructions. The key is separation—teach the private lending program first, get them interested, and only later present the specific deal. This builds anticipation and trust, ensuring both parties are aligned.Who Can Be a Private Lender?A common misconception among new investors is that you need wealthy, well-connected friends or family. Jay disagrees: your future lenders are everywhere—your social circles, business groups, and even acquaintances of acquaintances. He encourages investors to make a list of everyone they know, and then expand through business networking organizations such as BNI (Business Networking International) or real estate meetup groups. Additionally, existing private lenders (who often frequent self-directed IRA companies’ networking events) are looking for new investment opportunities.Securing Win-Win DealsTrust and security are the bedrock of private money. Jay emphasizes the importance of always securing your loans with real estate (never unsecured), naming lenders on insurance and title policies, and never borrowing more than 75% of the after-repaired value (ARV). If something goes wrong, the lender’s money is protected by the property’s value, not just the borrower’s promise.Communication and integrity are vital.

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@keithborie "Episode#83: A Quick and Easy Way To Fund Your Real Estate Deals - Jay Conner"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdGt4Y2U4zg Suppose you’ve ever wondered how seasoned real estate investors secure funding and scale their businesses, even when banks turn their backs. In that case, Jay Conner’s story is a masterclass in resourcefulness and strategic networking. Appearing on Keith Borie’s “The Wealth Flow” podcast, Jay Conner shared how losing his traditional lines of credit transformed his career and unlocked a world of private money lending that anyone, even beginners, can tap into with the right approach.From Banks to Private Lenders: A Pivotal ShiftJay Conner’s journey in real estate began like many others: relying on institutional money and local banks to finance deals. For six years, this strategy served him well until 2009, when his line of credit was abruptly cut off during the global financial crisis. Instead of calling it quits, Jay asked himself a simple but powerful question: “Who do I know who can help me with my problem?”A quick call to a friend and fellow investor, Jeff Blankenship, introduced Jay to the concept of “private money”—capital lent by individuals outside the traditional banking system, often using investment funds or retirement accounts. For Jay, this was the game-changer. Within ninety days, he raised over $2.1 million in private money, laying the foundation for hundreds of future deals.Teaching, Not Asking: The Secret SauceOne key lesson Jay emphasizes is the importance of having the right mindset. Most new investors fear rejection when asking for money. Jay flips the script: he never “asks” for money—instead, he “offers” an opportunity. He approaches potential lenders as a teacher: educating them about how private lending works, what rates they can earn, and how their investment will be protected with promissory notes and first-position mortgages.By separating the “teaching conversation” from the “deal conversation,” Jay removes the desperation (which, as he puts it, “has a smell to it”) and builds genuine relationships. When he has a deal ready, he calls existing interested lenders with what he calls the “good news phone call”—simply presenting the details and timeline, no begging or selling involved.Why Private Lenders Jump InJay describes his network of 47 private lenders, none of whom had ever heard of private lending before meeting him. For many, the appeal is simple: higher, more consistent returns than stocks or CDs, backed by real estate collateral, with zero day-to-day management hassles. Whether it’s putting idle cash to work or leveraging retirement funds through self-directed IRAs, private lending offers passive income and strong security.To make investing even easier, Jay handles everything: matching funds with deals, ensuring proper legal documentation, securing insurance, and, crucially, maintaining flexibility with terms. Lenders have options for monthly, quarterly, or semiannual payouts, and built-in clauses allow for early exits or substitutions if life circumstances change.A Win-Win MindsetWhat sets Jay apart is his win-win mentality. He firmly believes in putting the lender’s needs first, educating rather than selling, and building relationships that last for years. Most of his lenders have stayed with him since 2009—a testament to his integrity and the effectiveness of his system.He also recommends that every serious investor establish a relationship with a reputable self-directed IRA company, such as Quest Trust, to unlock the vast pool of retirement funds waiting for better returns.Getting Started: Jay’s AdviceFor investors eager to

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@keithborie "Episode#83: A Quick and Easy Way To Fund Your Real Estate Deals - Jay Conner"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdGt4Y2U4zg Suppose you’ve ever wondered how seasoned real estate investors secure funding and scale their businesses, even when banks turn their backs. In that case, Jay Conner’s story is a masterclass in resourcefulness and strategic networking. Appearing on Keith Borie’s “The Wealth Flow” podcast, Jay Conner shared how losing his traditional lines of credit transformed his career and unlocked a world of private money lending that anyone, even beginners, can tap into with the right approach.From Banks to Private Lenders: A Pivotal ShiftJay Conner’s journey in real estate began like many others: relying on institutional money and local banks to finance deals. For six years, this strategy served him well until 2009, when his line of credit was abruptly cut off during the global financial crisis. Instead of calling it quits, Jay asked himself a simple but powerful question: “Who do I know who can help me with my problem?”A quick call to a friend and fellow investor, Jeff Blankenship, introduced Jay to the concept of “private money”—capital lent by individuals outside the traditional banking system, often using investment funds or retirement accounts. For Jay, this was the game-changer. Within ninety days, he raised over $2.1 million in private money, laying the foundation for hundreds of future deals.Teaching, Not Asking: The Secret SauceOne key lesson Jay emphasizes is the importance of having the right mindset. Most new investors fear rejection when asking for money. Jay flips the script: he never “asks” for money—instead, he “offers” an opportunity. He approaches potential lenders as a teacher: educating them about how private lending works, what rates they can earn, and how their investment will be protected with promissory notes and first-position mortgages.By separating the “teaching conversation” from the “deal conversation,” Jay removes the desperation (which, as he puts it, “has a smell to it”) and builds genuine relationships. When he has a deal ready, he calls existing interested lenders with what he calls the “good news phone call”—simply presenting the details and timeline, no begging or selling involved.Why Private Lenders Jump InJay describes his network of 47 private lenders, none of whom had ever heard of private lending before meeting him. For many, the appeal is simple: higher, more consistent returns than stocks or CDs, backed by real estate collateral, with zero day-to-day management hassles. Whether it’s putting idle cash to work or leveraging retirement funds through self-directed IRAs, private lending offers passive income and strong security.To make investing even easier, Jay handles everything: matching funds with deals, ensuring proper legal documentation, securing insurance, and, crucially, maintaining flexibility with terms. Lenders have options for monthly, quarterly, or semiannual payouts, and built-in clauses allow for early exits or substitutions if life circumstances change.A Win-Win MindsetWhat sets Jay apart is his win-win mentality. He firmly believes in putting the lender’s needs first, educating rather than selling, and building relationships that last for years. Most of his lenders have stayed with him since 2009—a testament to his integrity and the effectiveness of his system.He also recommends that every serious investor establish a relationship with a reputable self-directed IRA company, such as Quest Trust, to unlock the vast pool of retirement funds waiting for better returns.Getting Started: Jay’s AdviceFor investors eager to

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@thekatebarryteam3281 "The Private Money Powerhouse: Funding Fortunes to High Returns with Jay Conner - EP 14"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iTULXZJROE  In the world of real estate investing, setbacks are almost a rite of passage. But for those determined enough, each obstacle is simply a stepping stone toward bigger success. This is the resounding message from the latest episode of the Raising Private Money podcast!From Traditional Lending to Private MoneyJay Conner’s real estate journey is a testament to adaptability and resilience. Like many investors, Jay started his career relying on traditional bank financing. For six years, this approach worked—until 2009’s global financial crisis abruptly shut down his line of credit, leaving two profitable deals suddenly unfunded. “The only opportunity I had at that moment was to solve a problem,” Jay recalls. And solve it he did.Rather than wallow, Jay reached out to contacts, sought advice, and quickly discovered the concept of raising private money. This method involves borrowing capital from everyday individuals—friends, neighbors, even fellow church members—who are looking for higher, safer returns on their investments than the stock market or a typical savings account.Educating, Not PitchingOne of the secrets to Jay’s success lies in his approach to fundraising. Instead of hard-selling investment opportunities or begging for money, Jay led with education. “I never asked for money. I simply explained the opportunity, how private lending works, and the kinds of returns people could achieve,” he says. By positioning himself as a teacher and problem-solver, Jay attracted investors who already knew, liked, and trusted him—and who appreciated the clarity and transparency.As Jay explains to Kate Barry, none of his first 47 private lenders had ever heard of private money or self-directed IRAs before he taught them about it. Separating the act of building investor relationships from pitching individual deals allowed him to grow trust and raise over $8 million, solely through “good news” phone calls inviting investors to put their money to work, not funding requests.Protecting Investors and Building TrustA cornerstone of Jay’s longevity is his diligent protection of private investors’ interests. He never borrows more than 75% of a property’s after-repair value, ensuring a 25% equity cushion and added security for his lenders. All investments are strictly tied to real property, secured with promissory notes and deeds of trust, and lenders are named on insurance policies.Jay’s systematic, risk-conscious approach allows him to promise—and deliver—competitive, consistent returns to investors, regardless of market conditions. Even when renovation budgets go over (as they so often do), these safeguards insulate investors from losses and keep their confidence high.Systems, Teams, and ConsistencyJay’s growth wasn’t built on volume but on quality. He and his wife, Carol Joy, run a high-margin operation, taking on two to three deals a month in a relatively small market. A key to their efficiency is a well-coordinated team of acquisition specialists, general contractors, and support staff. This lets them run up to six renovations simultaneously, execute projects smoothly, and bring homes to market quickly, often marketing through coming-soon listings and professional music videos to generate demand before a property is even available for showings.Lessons for Aspiring InvestorsIf Jay could go back to his earliest days, his advice would be this: Don’t go it alone. Get a mentor, connect with your local real estate investing association, and continually surround

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@thekatebarryteam3281 "The Private Money Powerhouse: Funding Fortunes to High Returns with Jay Conner - EP 14"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iTULXZJROE  In the world of real estate investing, setbacks are almost a rite of passage. But for those determined enough, each obstacle is simply a stepping stone toward bigger success. This is the resounding message from the latest episode of the Raising Private Money podcast!From Traditional Lending to Private MoneyJay Conner’s real estate journey is a testament to adaptability and resilience. Like many investors, Jay started his career relying on traditional bank financing. For six years, this approach worked—until 2009’s global financial crisis abruptly shut down his line of credit, leaving two profitable deals suddenly unfunded. “The only opportunity I had at that moment was to solve a problem,” Jay recalls. And solve it he did.Rather than wallow, Jay reached out to contacts, sought advice, and quickly discovered the concept of raising private money. This method involves borrowing capital from everyday individuals—friends, neighbors, even fellow church members—who are looking for higher, safer returns on their investments than the stock market or a typical savings account.Educating, Not PitchingOne of the secrets to Jay’s success lies in his approach to fundraising. Instead of hard-selling investment opportunities or begging for money, Jay led with education. “I never asked for money. I simply explained the opportunity, how private lending works, and the kinds of returns people could achieve,” he says. By positioning himself as a teacher and problem-solver, Jay attracted investors who already knew, liked, and trusted him—and who appreciated the clarity and transparency.As Jay explains to Kate Barry, none of his first 47 private lenders had ever heard of private money or self-directed IRAs before he taught them about it. Separating the act of building investor relationships from pitching individual deals allowed him to grow trust and raise over $8 million, solely through “good news” phone calls inviting investors to put their money to work, not funding requests.Protecting Investors and Building TrustA cornerstone of Jay’s longevity is his diligent protection of private investors’ interests. He never borrows more than 75% of a property’s after-repair value, ensuring a 25% equity cushion and added security for his lenders. All investments are strictly tied to real property, secured with promissory notes and deeds of trust, and lenders are named on insurance policies.Jay’s systematic, risk-conscious approach allows him to promise—and deliver—competitive, consistent returns to investors, regardless of market conditions. Even when renovation budgets go over (as they so often do), these safeguards insulate investors from losses and keep their confidence high.Systems, Teams, and ConsistencyJay’s growth wasn’t built on volume but on quality. He and his wife, Carol Joy, run a high-margin operation, taking on two to three deals a month in a relatively small market. A key to their efficiency is a well-coordinated team of acquisition specialists, general contractors, and support staff. This lets them run up to six renovations simultaneously, execute projects smoothly, and bring homes to market quickly, often marketing through coming-soon listings and professional music videos to generate demand before a property is even available for showings.Lessons for Aspiring InvestorsIf Jay could go back to his earliest days, his advice would be this: Don’t go it alone. Get a mentor, connect with your local real estate investing association, and continually surround

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@InvestorMelDaveDupuis "Raising Private Money Like A Pro: $2m In Just A Few Months!"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Epb08dAiKDs For new and experienced real estate investors alike, the challenge of finding funding is one of the biggest obstacles to growing a profitable portfolio. If you’ve ever wondered how some investors manage to raise millions in private money, without begging banks or feeling desperate in front of lenders, you’ll want to pay close attention to the strategies shared by Jay Conner, known as the “Private Money Authority.” Recently, Jay joined seasoned investor couple Mel and Dave Dupuis for an in-depth discussion about the art and science of raising private capital for real estate deals.Overcoming the “Bank Said No” ClubJay’s real estate journey began traditionally, with bank financing. But in 2009, when his banker abruptly cut off his line of credit, Jay was forced into what he calls the “club of being told no by the bank.” Many investors find themselves here: good credit, a history of successful deals, but suddenly, institutional partners slam the door shut. For Jay, this so-called setback was the doorway to a better way: raising private money from individuals.What Exactly is Private Money?Private money, as Jay explains, is funds lent by individuals (not institutions) who are looking for secure, high-yield investment opportunities. Unlike hard money lenders, who often charge hefty fees and high rates, private lenders can be ordinary people—friends, acquaintances, or referrals—looking to invest their savings or retirement funds through self-directed IRAs.Jay’s “Secret Sauce” to Raising Millions (Without Ever Begging)Here’s where Jay’s approach is both counterintuitive and powerful: He never asks anyone for money. That’s right. Instead of pitching deals or putting on the hard sell, Jay puts on his “teacher hat” and educates potential private lenders about the opportunity to earn attractive, safe returns by acting as the bank. He keeps the educational conversation separate from any specific asks or deals.The process goes like this:Teach, Don’t Pitch: Jay hosts one-on-one conversations or small luncheons to explain how private lending works, what kinds of returns they can expect, and how their investment is secured.Let Them Volunteer: By the end of the conversation, prospective lenders often tell him how much they have available to invest, sometimes even moving retirement savings into a self-directed IRA.The “Good News Call”: Once a suitable deal comes along, Jay updates his new lender with a simple call: “I have good news! I can put your $150,000 to work on a house in Newport next Wednesday.” He explains the terms, closing date, and logistics—but crucially, he never “asks” for the money. The lender has already expressed their interest and is waiting for the opportunity.This approach eliminates desperation, builds trust, and positions Jay as a partner and educator, not a salesperson.How Jay Protects His Private LendersA major reason people hesitate to lend is concern about risk and security. Jay addresses this upfront:Each loan is secured by a deed of trust (mortgage) on the property, just like a bank loan.Maximum loan-to-value is 75% of the after-repair value, not the purchase price, ensuring enough equity for safety.Private lenders are named as mortgagees on insurance policies and as additional insureds on title policies.Loans are set up with conservative timelines (typically two years), so extensions or surprises are rare.Most importantly, if Jay ever fails to pay, the property itself secures the lender’s investm

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@InvestorMelDaveDupuis "Raising Private Money Like A Pro: $2m In Just A Few Months!"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Epb08dAiKDs For new and experienced real estate investors alike, the challenge of finding funding is one of the biggest obstacles to growing a profitable portfolio. If you’ve ever wondered how some investors manage to raise millions in private money, without begging banks or feeling desperate in front of lenders, you’ll want to pay close attention to the strategies shared by Jay Conner, known as the “Private Money Authority.” Recently, Jay joined seasoned investor couple Mel and Dave Dupuis for an in-depth discussion about the art and science of raising private capital for real estate deals.Overcoming the “Bank Said No” ClubJay’s real estate journey began traditionally, with bank financing. But in 2009, when his banker abruptly cut off his line of credit, Jay was forced into what he calls the “club of being told no by the bank.” Many investors find themselves here: good credit, a history of successful deals, but suddenly, institutional partners slam the door shut. For Jay, this so-called setback was the doorway to a better way: raising private money from individuals.What Exactly is Private Money?Private money, as Jay explains, is funds lent by individuals (not institutions) who are looking for secure, high-yield investment opportunities. Unlike hard money lenders, who often charge hefty fees and high rates, private lenders can be ordinary people—friends, acquaintances, or referrals—looking to invest their savings or retirement funds through self-directed IRAs.Jay’s “Secret Sauce” to Raising Millions (Without Ever Begging)Here’s where Jay’s approach is both counterintuitive and powerful: He never asks anyone for money. That’s right. Instead of pitching deals or putting on the hard sell, Jay puts on his “teacher hat” and educates potential private lenders about the opportunity to earn attractive, safe returns by acting as the bank. He keeps the educational conversation separate from any specific asks or deals.The process goes like this:Teach, Don’t Pitch: Jay hosts one-on-one conversations or small luncheons to explain how private lending works, what kinds of returns they can expect, and how their investment is secured.Let Them Volunteer: By the end of the conversation, prospective lenders often tell him how much they have available to invest, sometimes even moving retirement savings into a self-directed IRA.The “Good News Call”: Once a suitable deal comes along, Jay updates his new lender with a simple call: “I have good news! I can put your $150,000 to work on a house in Newport next Wednesday.” He explains the terms, closing date, and logistics—but crucially, he never “asks” for the money. The lender has already expressed their interest and is waiting for the opportunity.This approach eliminates desperation, builds trust, and positions Jay as a partner and educator, not a salesperson.How Jay Protects His Private LendersA major reason people hesitate to lend is concern about risk and security. Jay addresses this upfront:Each loan is secured by a deed of trust (mortgage) on the property, just like a bank loan.Maximum loan-to-value is 75% of the after-repair value, not the purchase price, ensuring enough equity for safety.Private lenders are named as mortgagees on insurance policies and as additional insureds on title policies.Loans are set up with conservative timelines (typically two years), so extensions or surprises are rare.Most importantly, if Jay ever fails to pay, the property itself secures the lender’s investm