Private Lending Isn’t a Charity—It’s a Partnership
- Erik Roth
- Oct 13
- 2 min read

Private lending offers speed, flexibility, and access—but it’s not a blank check. Too often, borrowers come to the table with no capital, no collateral, and a list of demands. They want 100% financing, zero skin in the game, and full control of the terms. Let’s talk about why that’s not just unrealistic—it’s unsustainable.
The Myth of “Free Money”
Private lenders aren’t banks, and we’re not venture capitalists. We’re deploying our own capital, assuming real risk, and structuring deals that need to work for both sides. When a borrower asks for:
- 100% of purchase price
- Rehab costs
- Closing costs
- Holding costs
- And wants to dictate the timeline and repayment terms...
…it’s not a partnership. It’s a liability.
What Real Borrower-Lender Partnerships Look Like
Strong borrowers bring something to the table:
- Capital contribution—even 10–20% shows commitment
- Clear exit strategy—how and when the loan will be repaid
- Flexibility—willingness to work within a structure that protects both parties
- Respect for risk—understanding that private capital isn’t free, and it’s not infinite
Why I Say No (and When I Say Yes)
I’ve built my lending business to be fast, fair, and borrower-friendly—but not at the expense of sustainability. I say no to deals that:
- Put all the risk on me
- Have no clear path to repayment
- Treat private capital like a donation
But I say yes to deals that:
- Are creatively structured
- Show mutual respect
- Offer upside for both sides
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about borrowing private capital, come to the table ready to collaborate—not just collect. I’m here to help structure deals that work, but I won’t fund entitlement. Let’s build something real, together.
Ready to Talk?
If you’ve got a deal in mind and you’re ready to work together, reach out. I’ll ask the right questions, offer honest feedback, and help you find a structure that works—for both of us.


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