Raising Private Money with Jay Conner

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@VastSolutionsGroupdotcom        “Real Estate Deals with Private Money!”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=70bQ7fWVgiM&t=367s     If you’re a real estate investor, entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to take your business to the next level, you’ve likely encountered one common hurdle: access to funding. The latest episode, featuring Jay Conner and Kenner French, dives deep into an innovative approach that has been helping investors scale their portfolios for years—raising private money without ever directly asking for it.Jay Conner, recognized in the industry as “The Private Money Authority,” shared the actionable, real-life steps that have powered his own success since 2009 and transformed the investment businesses of countless others. He emphasizes that this isn’t a theory—it’s a proven strategy honed over years of real estate experience.Private Money vs. Hard Money: Understanding the DifferenceOne of the biggest takeaways from the episode is Jay’s distinction between hard money and private money. As Jay notes:“Private money has had more of an impact…in my real estate investing career ever since 2009 when I started doing it beyond anything else that I’ve done.”Hard money lending typically involves strict terms, high interest rates (often between 12% and 14%), origination fees, appraisals, and a limited timeframe to repay the loan. By contrast, private money is all about building one-on-one relationships with individuals—often from your own network. These lenders provide funds from their investment capital or retirement accounts, allowing the real estate entrepreneur to set the terms, interest rates (often as low as 8%), and loan period (usually multiple years).The Mindset Shift: From Borrower to TeacherA recurring theme throughout Jay’s approach is the importance of mindset. Most people think the person with the money makes the rules, but Jay flips the script. He urges investors to:“Take on the mindset of having a servant’s heart and put on your teacher hat.”Rather than begging or selling, you develop a program, become the “private money teacher,” and share opportunities with potential lenders in your network. This isn’t about joint ventures or giving away equity. The private lender becomes, in essence, a bank, collateralized not through ownership but through promissory notes and deeds of trust.Five Steps to Raise Private MoneyJay outlines a simple, replicable five-step process:Make Your List: Identify the top prospects in your own network—people in your contacts, at church, or on your email list.Opening Conversation Script: Use direct or indirect methods (which Jay expands on in his conference) that don’t involve asking for money, but instead spark curiosity and invite questions.Stress-Free Investing Audio: Jay records a short audio to introduce people to the concept of private money, raising questions without pitching the opportunity directly.One-on-One or Group Presentation: Teach the program, share success stories, outline terms, and explain the safety and profitability of private lending.Verbal Pledge: Secure a verbal commitment about how much a prospective lender can offer, without pressure or paperwork at this point.Why Private Money Works—for Both SidesThere are a wealth of reasons why investors prefer private money: no credit checks, no income verification, no personal guarantees, fast closings, and the ability to bring home fast cash and fund unlimited deals. For private lenders, their investment is safely collateralized, they earn far more than

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@REIAgent       “Unlocking Unlimited Private Money Success with Jay Conner”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yG_echRkMUU    Are you a real estate investor frustrated by the limitations of traditional financing? You’re not alone. In the latest episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner shares his transformative journey from relying on banks to harnessing the power of private money—a shift that reshaped his investing career and can do the same for you.The Asset-Backed Debt AdvantageJay emphasizes that private money deals in single-family real estate are distinct from syndications regulated by the SEC. What makes them different? They’re structured as “asset-backed debt,” meaning every loan is secured by an individual property—protected by a mortgage or deed of trust. Jay puts it simply: “We’re not borrowing money unsecured; we’re securing that note with a deed of trust or a mortgage.” This structure opens the door to a wide range of lenders, regardless of accreditation, each with their own promissory note for each property.There’s also flexibility. Whether you have one property or a portfolio, there’s no limit to the number of private lenders you can work with, nor do your lenders need to meet strict financial requirements. As Jay notes, “All the notes are secured by individual properties,” freeing you from the headaches and restrictions of bank lines of credit.The Origins of a Private Money MindsetJay didn’t always have access to private capital. He started in mobile homes and, for years, funded his deals the traditional way: “Go to the local bank or the mortgage company and fill out applications.” That changed dramatically in 2009 when, during the financial crisis, his bank shut down his line of credit overnight. Without options, Jay reached out to peers and discovered the world of private lending and self-directed IRAs—a revelation that allowed him to raise over $2 million in new funding, even as markets crashed.Central to Jay’s success was a mindset shift. He advocates “owning the real estate between your ears,” urging investors to approach private money not as desperate borrowers but as educators who offer opportunities. Jay became a “private money teacher,” sharing the mechanics and benefits of private lending with people in his network who, more often than not, had never heard of the concept.The Good News Phone Call: How to Get Your Deals FundedIf you’re wondering how Jay gets his deals funded 100% of the time, it all hinges on transparency and preparation. Before presenting any deal, he educates potential lenders about the program: interest rates (often 8%), terms, collateral, and protections. He separates teaching about private money from pitching individual properties, insisting, “Desperation has a smell to it. The worst time in the world to be raising private money is when you need it for a deal.”Once a lender is onboard and prepared—sometimes moving their retirement funds to a self-directed IRA—Jay calls with the “good news”: a deal matches their criteria, here are the numbers, and here’s how to wire the funds. This process builds trust and excitement, ensuring lenders are ready and eager to participate.Flexibility for Investors and Lenders AlikeOne of the most powerful aspects of private lending is that the investor sets the terms. Payments can be monthly, quarterly, or only upon completion, depending on the lender’s objectives. Jay highlights that elderly lenders seeking income can receive monthly payments, while those using IRA funds may prefer less frequent payouts. When buying property, Jay’s deals often

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@SouthsideUnicorn       “A Chat with Jay CONNER - The Private Money Lender”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3WwZ1RptwQc   When most people think about investing in real estate, they envision long hours at banks, filling out tedious paperwork, and waiting anxiously for loan approvals. But what if you could sidestep all of that? What if you could leverage alternative lending options that not only offer security but can transform the way you approach your investments? On a recent episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Ken White sat down with Jay Conner, known as the Private Money Authority, to pull back the curtain on the world of private money lending—and why it might just be the game-changer for real estate investors across the country.Ditch the Traditional SystemJay Conner’s passion for private money stems from his years of experience in real estate. As he shared with Ken White, “Private money for my real estate deals has had more of an impact on our real estate investing business than any other strategy that we've employed ever since we started back in 2003.” Unlike traditional bank loans, which leave the borrower at the mercy of underwriting terms and interest set by institutions, private money empowers investors to set their own terms. “In my world of borrowing money,” Jay notes, “I make the rules. I set the terms. I'm my own underwriter.”What is Private Money and Who Are the Lenders?Private money is not hard money. As Jay explains, hard money lenders are institutional entities that raise funds from various investors to create a lending pool, often charging origination fees and high interest rates. Private money, however, is a direct transaction between the investor and ordinary individuals—such as retired teachers, law enforcement officers, and military personnel—who are seeking a reliable return on their investment.Many of these private lenders had never heard of the concept until it was introduced by a real estate professional. They use either investment capital or retirement funds such as self-directed IRAs, enabling them to invest outside of the traditional stock market and bank CDs. “Prior to Covid, there was $18 trillion in cash in just ordinary people's... Today, $31 trillion,” says Jay, highlighting an enormous pool of untapped potential for real estate investors.Safety Comes FirstOne of the biggest concerns potential lenders and investors have is security—how is their money protected compared to the FDIC-insured deposits in banks? Jay lays out a structure designed to mitigate risks. Private lenders aren’t left unsecured; every loan is collateralized by the asset in question. In Jay’s words, “Everything we do is what's called asset-backed debt.”What does this mean in practice? If, for any reason, the borrower fails to repay, the lender has the legal right to foreclose on the property, just as a bank would. Additionally, loans are conservative—never more than 75% of the property’s after-repaired value (ARV). Lenders are named as mortgagees on the insurance and title policy, explicitly giving them a claim if anything goes wrong. “It’s secured. It’s not unsecured. It’s a conservative loan-to-value,” says Jay.Getting Paid to BuyOne of the most exciting aspects Jay discusses is the potential to receive multiple “big checks” in a single transaction. He breaks it down using simple math: buy a distressed property at 50% of its ARV, rehab it, and finance up to 75% of ARV through private lenders. This often leaves “excess cash to close” that the investor can use for renovations—or even to pay the lender’s monthly interest upf

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@findingfreedomwithjohnoder3334      “Unlocking Real Estate Wealth with Private Money, with Jay Conner”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXC3j67N--8  When it comes to breaking into real estate investing, one myth has persisted for years: just get a deal under contract, and the money will show up. On a recent episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, John Odermatt sat down with Jay Conner—also known as the Private Money Authority—to bust that myth and reveal a smarter, safer path to funding real estate deals.Why Private Money Changes the GameJay Conner, a veteran investor who’s bought, flipped, and rehabbed over 500 houses, attributes the success of his business not to market timing or secret deals, but to the strategic use of private money. As Jay explains, “Private money’s had more of an impact on our real estate investing business than any other strategy that we’ve employed since I started using private money to fund my deals.” The difference was clear during the 2009 financial crisis. Jay was suddenly cut off from traditional bank loans, but instead of giving up, he pivoted. After a critical conversation with another investor, he discovered the world of private money and self-directed IRAs.Turning Problems into OpportunitiesJay’s story began with adversity: his bank stopped lending, and his deals were at risk. Rather than dwelling on the setback, he asked himself, “Who do you know that can help fix your problem?” That single question led him to a seminar on private money, and ultimately to raising over $2.15 million in alternative funding in just a few weeks. Instead of seeking help from institutions, Jay got creative and built relationships with private lenders—ordinary people interested in secure, high-return investments.The Servant’s Heart ApproachA unique aspect of Jay’s approach to private money is his attitude. He decided never to ask anyone directly for money or pitch specific deals. Instead, he adopted a “servant’s heart” mindset, positioning himself as a teacher. As Jay puts it, “I started sharing… with my own network, my own connections, my own warm market as to what private money is and how they could be a private lender and how they could earn high rates of return safely and securely, either using their investment capital or… their retirement account.” Jay designed a private money program offering 8% interest, with no points or origination fees. He secured these investments with deeds of trust or mortgages and included additional protections like naming lenders on insurance and title policies.How Jay Gets Deals Funded Without PitchingInstead of pitching deals, Jay educates his network about the opportunity first. When a suitable deal comes up, he simply provides his lender with the good news: he can now put their money to work, matching the funding required with the lender’s available funds. Jay says, “The most stupid thing I could do is ask… do you want to fund the deal? Of course, they want to fund the deal.” His system separates the teaching of private money from the timing of specific deals, making the process seamless and stress-free for both parties.Getting Started in Private Money—Even If You’re Brand NewMany new investors wonder, “Who’s going to loan me money if I’ve never done a deal before?” Jay emphasizes two reasons why this is possible: first, private loans are secured by the property itself. If the investor defaults, the lender gets the property, making it a safe bet. Second, Jay recommends partnering with experienced mentors. “A brand new real estate investor should not be doing this business unless they have jo

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@TroyKearns      “How to Buy Real Estate With Other People's Money - PRIVATE MONEY (Jay Conner)”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-AogwKTEOA In a recent episode of the Raising Private Money podcast, Jay Conner—a respected investor, coach, and mentor—joined Troy Kearns to dive deep into strategies that are working in today’s ever-shifting property market. Their candid conversation offered not only actionable insights but also inspiring perspectives for both beginners and seasoned pros.Navigating Shifting MarketsOne thing Jay and Troy agree on: the real estate landscape is always on the move. Rather than fearing change, Jay emphasizes the importance of adapting and staying informed. “You have to stay close to the ground, plugged into what’s happening nationally and locally,” Jay advises. Whether new interest rates, inventory shortages, or emerging technology, savvy investors continuously educate themselves and adjust their strategies accordingly.Creative Financing is KingPerhaps the biggest theme in their discussion was the power of creative financing. Jay, known as “The Private Money Authority,” shared how he’s helped countless investors secure deals without relying solely on banks or traditional lending. Private money, he explained, means working with individuals—think professionals, retirees, and even neighbors—who are looking for a solid return on their investment, typically backed by real estate.Jay and Troy broke down the steps: find people who have idle cash or underperforming retirement accounts, show them how lending it in real estate can be safer and more profitable, and structure straightforward win-win deals. Jay pointed out that this approach is especially crucial during times when conventional lending tightens or property values fluctuate.Building Relationships FirstBoth Jay and Troy stressed that real estate remains, at its heart, a people business. Whether working with private lenders, sellers, or other professionals, trust and clear communication are paramount. Jay’s personal approach—educating potential investors before ever asking for funds—reflects this philosophy. By building relationships and proving yourself as a reliable partner, you not only secure more deals but also develop a solid network that supports your long-term success.Practical Deal-Making TipsThroughout their chat, Troy prompted Jay to share practical advice listeners could apply in the field. Among the tips:Focus on Off-Market Deals: Both speakers highlighted the value of sourcing properties before they ever hit public listings. This could mean direct mail campaigns, networking, or leveraging existing relationships.Offer Solutions, Not Just Transactions: Jay’s success comes from approaching sellers as a problem-solver—understanding their unique situations and crafting offers that address both their needs and his business goals.Always Have Multiple Exit Strategies: Particularly in uncertain markets, Jay suggests having several options for every deal. That might include wholesaling, rehabbing and selling, or holding as a rental.Mindset Matters MostBeyond tactics, Jay and Troy delved into the mindset required for true real estate success. Jay spoke candidly about the importance of perseverance, lifelong learning, and thinking like an entrepreneur. “You have to treat this like a business, not just a hobby,” he reminded listeners, emphasizing systems, consistency, and the willingness to pivot when necessary.Troy, echoing these sentiments, shared stories of tough deals and lessons learned, underlining that setbacks are just part of the journey. For those just starting, both me

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@thedailymastermind     “Real Estate Secrets for Financial Independence with Jay Conner”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78to-KC6bRA&t=1123s If you’ve ever wondered what separates the good from the great in real estate investing, the conversation between Jay Conner and George Wright III shines a light on the subject. While some jump from deal to deal, always searching for that elusive secret, others quietly build thriving portfolios by focusing on fundamentals and cultivating the right relationships. In their fascinating discussion, Jay and George unpack the mindsets and strategies that propel real estate investors to the next level.Mindset Before MechanicsOne of the central themes Jay and George highlight is the importance of mindset. While technical know-how—like understanding contracts, negotiation, or analyzing properties—is essential, both agree that success starts before any deal is signed. Without the right mindset, even the best tactics can fall flat. George shares how self-belief and the ability to persist through setbacks played key roles in his journey. Jay emphasizes that investors should see challenges as opportunities, not roadblocks. As Jay puts it, “It’s about being solution-oriented and always looking for how to make things work, not why they won’t.”Building Relationships for Long-Term GrowthAnother powerful takeaway from their conversation is the undeniable importance of relationships in real estate. George recalls how some of his early deals came from simply reaching out, being authentic, and asking peers for advice or connections. Jay echoes this, explaining that private money lending—a cornerstone in his success—relies on trust and rapport. The duo agrees: if you’re not networking and building relationships, you’re leaving money (and deals) on the table.They discuss the concept of “adding value first.” Instead of asking experienced investors for a favor, new investors should look for ways to help others, whether by sharing leads, assisting with due diligence, or providing support at events. Over time, this approach creates a strong, supportive network that benefits everyone involved.Systems and Consistency WinJay and George stress that the most successful investors are those who treat their business well, like a business. That means implementing systems for finding and analyzing deals, following up with contacts, and managing properties. George describes how, early on, he fell into the trap of “chasing shiny objects”—getting distracted by the latest tactic or opportunity. It wasn’t until he focused on building repeatable processes that his results became predictable and scalable.Jay adds that consistency, not intensity, delivers results over the long haul. A great week of networking or deal sourcing doesn’t matter much if it’s followed by three weeks of inactivity. Establishing a routine—even small daily actions—compounds over time.Leveraging Private Money Without BanksA highlight of their discussion revolves around the power of private money versus traditional bank financing. Jay shares his framework for attracting and working with private lenders, enabling him to do more deals with less red tape. He outlines how private lending isn’t just about pitching deals—it’s about educating potential lenders, demonstrating credibility, and providing them with attractive, secure opportunities. George nods in agreement, noting that when you master private lending, the barriers to scaling your business drop dramatically.Final Thoughts: Take Action and Keep LearningJay and George close their conversation by urging li

In the real estate investing world, few strategies are as empowering—and potentially lucrative—as flipping with private money. In a recent episode of "Flip This Town," veteran investor Jay Conner sat down with Jason Lassiter, a successful real estate entrepreneur, to share actionable tips for building your business using private funding. Here’s a summary of their conversation and why private money might be the creative spark your local real estate market needs.What is Private Money—and Why Does It Matter?Jason Lassiter began by defining private money simply: it’s funding that comes from individuals, not banks or hard money lenders. Private investors—often friends, family, or local connections—lend their money for your real estate deals, earning a return secured by real estate collateral."The agility that private money gives you in this market is powerful," Jason noted. Unlike traditional lenders with stringent requirements and long paperwork trails, private lenders can provide speed and flexibility. This allows investors to swoop in on deals that others might not be able to close.In Your Backyard—Opportunities are EverywhereJason emphasized that you don’t have to move to a big city or hot market to take advantage of private money lending. In fact, there are undervalued properties to flip in every town, big or small. The crucial first step is identifying what Jason describes as the "hidden gems"—properties often overlooked due to cosmetic issues or outdated marketing."When you’re using private money, you can move fast," Jason said, "and sellers appreciate that, especially in smaller markets where good buyers are hard to find." Swift, cash-based closings put you ahead of the pack, especially in competitive neighborhoods.Building Your Private Money NetworkJay Conner and Jason discussed that often, potential private lenders are in your everyday circles—they just don’t know how they can help (and benefit!)."The number one thing is just letting people know what you do," Jay advised. Start having conversations: Share at local meet-ups, church groups, or even social media that you help people earn great returns, secured by real estate.Jason added, "You’d be surprised—neighbors, dentists, business owners—they all might have retirement accounts or savings that aren’t earning much. Once they trust you, these can become great sources of private loans."A key point is to keep things professional. Outline a simple deal structure, provide transparency, and ensure their investment is secured and insured. Over time, as you develop a track record, referrals will flow your way. As Jason put it, “Integrity and communication are the secret sauce. You have to deliver every time.”How to Structure the DealsEvery private money arrangement needs clear boundaries. Jason likes to keep it simple: agreements are usually secured by the property (via a note and mortgage or deed of trust), and the lender earns a fixed interest rate, often paid when the property flips. Terms vary, but the focus is always on win-win scenarios—reasonable rates for the lender, with enough margin left for a profitable flip.Jay and Jason explained that clarity is crucial. Lay out timelines, exit strategies, and backup options—with private money, reputation is everything. As your investors succeed, they’ll want to invest again (and will bring friends along).Flipping With ConfidenceJason’s parting encouragement? Don’t let a lack of bank financing stop you. In any town, there’s “hidden money” waiting to work for you, if you leverage relationships and communicate well. Confidence, transparency, and consistency are your best tools for building a private money network and growing your flipping business.Flipping houses with private money isn’t just about real estate—it’s about community building, providing value, and creating local wea

Achieving lifelong wealth is an aspiration shared by many, but very few actually manage to accomplish it in their lifetime. In the insightful discussion between Jay Conner and legendary wealth coach Robert Allen, listeners are treated to a masterclass on what it takes not just to build wealth but to ensure it lasts for generations.So, what are the secrets to generating a lifetime of unlimited wealth? Let’s break down the essential lessons shared by Robert Allen in this illuminating conversation. Mindset is EverythingRobert Allen begins by emphasizing the power of mindset. According to Allen, building wealth starts from within. Many approach money with limiting beliefs, such as “money is hard to earn” or “only the lucky become wealthy.” These beliefs can sabotage efforts before they even begin.Instead, Allen suggests adopting a mindset of abundance. Reframe your thinking to believe that opportunities are everywhere, and that you have the resources and ability to seize them. Allen claims: “If you don’t believe you can have unlimited wealth, then you’re right. But if you believe you can, then you’re also right.” The Power of Multiple Income StreamsOne of Allen’s core philosophies is the importance of multiple income streams. Relying solely on one source—like a job—can put your financial future at risk. He advocates for creating three or more income streams, which can include rental properties, side businesses, investments, royalties, and more.Jay Conner and Robert Allen discuss how real estate, in particular, can provide passive income that lasts for a lifetime. But Allen’s advice goes beyond real estate. He encourages people to explore digital businesses, dividend-paying stocks, or even writing a book for ongoing royalty payments. The Principle of LeverageWealth isn’t just about working harder; it’s about working smarter. Allen introduces the idea of leverage—using other people’s time, money, and skills to scale your wealth much faster. For example, in real estate investing, this might mean partnering with investors, leveraging mortgages, or using professional property managers to reduce your workload.As Allen puts it: “You don’t need to do everything yourself. Find partners, use systems, or hire experts who can help you grow faster and more efficiently.” Fail Forward and Embrace LearningAllen and Conner both agree: failure is inevitable on the road to wealth. What sets successful individuals apart is their ability to learn from setbacks and keep moving forward. Allen recounts his own challenges, including investments that didn’t go as planned. He calls these “tuition fees” for the school of wealth and growth.Embrace these moments as opportunities to gain wisdom and resilience. Over time, these lessons compound, building your confidence and expertise. Action Beats PerfectionFinally, Robert Allen encourages listeners to take consistent action. Many people get stuck in endless research or planning phases, paralyzed by indecision. According to Allen, those who act—imperfectly and repeatedly—are often the ones who build lasting wealth. Start with small steps, learn as you go, and adjust your strategies based on what you discover.In ConclusionThe path to unlimited wealth isn’t reserved for the privileged few. As Robert Allen outlines in his engaging conversation with Jay Conner, it’s accessible to anyone willing to adopt the right mindset, build multiple income streams, leverage resources, welcome learning opportunities, and take consistent action.Start today by reframing your beliefs about money, identifying new streams of income, and—most importantly—taking that first, imperfect step. Because, as Allen reminds us, your wealth journey begins the moment you decide it will.

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@lily.global    “Get Private Money For Property Deals - Jay Conner And Lily Patrascu”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHZVZgLbkmI&t=813s   In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, success stories aren’t just inspiring—they’re also instructive. The recent conversation between Jay Conner and Lily Patrascu offers a treasure trove of actionable strategies for anyone interested in real estate investing, personal branding, or simply leveling up their business game.Jay Conner: The Power of Creative Real Estate InvestingJay Conner’s journey in real estate is marked by adaptability and creative problem-solving. In the recording, Jay dives into how he got started in the industry and the crucial turning points that shaped his approach. One key insight he shares is the importance of not relying solely on traditional financing.Traditional banks and lenders can be limiting, especially for newcomers or those seeking flexible terms. Jay explains how leveraging private money became his secret weapon—allowing him to fund deals quickly and with far less red tape. Private investors, according to Jay, aren’t just looking for returns—they’re looking for trustworthy operators. “It’s about trust, relationships, and transparency,” he stresses.For aspiring investors, Jay’s advice is clear: start building your credibility now. Attend local meetups, connect with mentors, and most importantly, start small but think big. Over time, your reputation will become as valuable as your portfolio.Collaboration: The Multiplier EffectA recurring theme throughout the conversation is the exponential power of collaboration. Jay and Lily both highlight how engaging with like-minded individuals, whether through masterminds, podcasts, or business partnerships, multiplies growth.Jay illustrates with real-world examples—partnering with others led to larger deals, increased reach, and, ultimately, greater profits. Lily echoes this sentiment, noting that collaboration opens doors and accelerates learning. “When you surround yourself with high-achievers, success rubs off on you,” she says.Bridging Real Estate and BrandingWhat makes this discussion truly unique is the synergy between real estate investing and personal branding. Jay and Lily underscore how credibility in one’s field—and visibility online—are two sides of the same coin. Whether you’re raising funds for a property or launching a new coaching program, people invest in those they trust and recognize.The practical takeaway? Start today—document your wins, build your network, and invest in your personal development. With platforms available to amplify your voice and numerous communities to join, there’s never been a better time to carve out your own path.ConclusionThe conversation between Jay Conner and Lily Patrascu is a blueprint for anyone looking to turn ambition into action. By melding smart financing strategies with intentional personal branding, the possibilities are endless.If you’re at the crossroads of building a real estate portfolio or increasing your business visibility, Jay and Lily’s insights are your north star. Start small, stay authentic, and remember—the journey is just as important as the destination.10 Discussion Questions from this Episode:Jay Conner emphasizes “not asking for money” when raising private funds for real estate. What psychological or strategic advantages do you think this approach provides compared to traditional fundraising methods?In the episode, Jay describes wearing his “teacher hat” instead of a “salesperson hat.” How does leading with education build long-term trust with potential private le

***Guest AppearanceCredits to:https://www.youtube.com/@investorfuel   “5 Steps to Raising Private Money”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksdxraEyryo  Real estate can be a daunting world to break into, but thanks to trailblazers like Jay Conner and Mike Hambright, aspiring investors can sidestep common pitfalls and accelerate their learning curve. In the enlightening episode, Jay joins Mike to dive deep into the keys behind his success and the lessons every real estate investor, seasoned or novice, needs to hear.From Banker to Real Estate MaverickJay Conner didn’t start his career in real estate. As he shares with Mike, Jay’s journey began in the world of banking—a background that gave him an insider’s view of how lending institutions make decisions. When Jay ventured into real estate investing full-time back in 2003, he brought this financial acumen with him. Early on, his competitive edge was actually in understanding how to secure funding—a lesson that remains critical for investors today.Jay recalls how, like many, he initially relied on traditional, institutional lenders. But that all changed in 2008, when banks started shutting their doors in the wake of the financial crisis. “All our lines of credit were frozen overnight,” he recounts. Instead of calling it quits, Jay pivoted—discovering the world of “private money.”The Power of Private MoneyJay’s perspective on funding is refreshingly straightforward: if you’re not controlling your funding, you’re limiting your business. Traditional lenders are plagued by delays, red tape, and shifting lending standards. That’s where private money shines.Private money—loans from individuals rather than banks—allowed Jay to swiftly acquire, renovate, and turn properties without cumbersome loan approvals or rejections. He points out that private lenders are seeking good returns and safe investments, making real estate the ideal match. For Jay, mastering the art of private money raised the ceiling on how much he could grow.Scaling with Relationships and ReputationMike Hambright, a seasoned investor himself, steers the conversation toward how relationships have been key to Jay’s ongoing success. In real estate, says Jay, your reputation is your most valuable asset. By delivering consistently and treating lenders and partners ethically, Jay built a network eager to work with him.He also underscores the importance of transparency. Jay openly communicates about project risks and rewards, which only enhances trust. “Private lenders want to know their money’s safe, and that you’re someone who can be trusted with that responsibility,” he explains.Mindset: The Ultimate Game-ChangerOne of the most inspiring moments in the podcast comes when Jay and Mike discuss the mindset required for sustained success. Jay admits he wasn’t always comfortable pitching opportunities to others—a common block for many entrepreneurs. “It’s not about asking for money,” Jay says. “It’s about offering an opportunity—letting someone else participate in your success.”Mike echoes this sentiment, highlighting that shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset changes everything. Real estate is ultimately about solving problems for sellers, buyers, and lenders alike; making offers and networking isn’t self-serving, but rather a win-win for everyone involved.Timeless Takeaways for Any InvestorThe episode wraps up with Jay’s advice for anyone looking to break new ground or scale their investing business:Embrace Rejection: Not every deal or lender will say yes, and that’s okay.Invest in Relationships: Treat every partner like your most important client—they might just become it.Never Stop Learning: The mark