We have an active group in Barcelona with whom we meet once a month with events and networking sessions.

Most of the compliance and inspections are already completed or in final review.To support scaling production (inventory, packaging, equipment, and initial distribution), I’m evaluating the best way to structure a secured private loan in the $150K–$500K range.I’m not posting this to solicit funds directly.

NAR’s Housing Affordability Index shows homes are the most affordable they’ve been since March 2022.Bottom line: January may be weather-driven noise.If affordability continues improving and rates stabilize, demand could rebound heading into spring.For realtors: this looks more like a pause than a collapse.Consumer Spending & Unemployment SignalsRetail sales were flat in December (missing expectations).Initial jobless claims remain relatively low at 227,000.

I have a first-position hard money lender in place (purchase + rehab financing), and everything on that side is moving forward.Where I’m stuck is the remaining gap capital needed for the down payment, closing costs, and initial carry.Here’s what happened (lesson learned the hard way):Earlier in the process, I planned to do this deal with a few friends who verbally agreed to invest alongside me.

This aligns with my initial leaning.

Are you writing the initial messaging yourself then handing off the distribution?

We were initially thinking California, or neighboring states.

The real question is whether you can cover surprises without getting forced into a bad refinance or a fire sale.A practical way to think about it:First, confirm what $20,000 actually buys youIf you are using conventional financing, $20,000 often becomes tight once you include closing costs, inspection items, initial repairs, and lender escrows.

Best piece of advice I can give you is to do your research and push through the initial fear.

I’m not chasing appreciation or BRRR hype — just looking for properties that work today and still make sense 10–20 years out.My capital stack:~$90k available for down payment + closing + initial reservesFinancing: conventional / FHA / DSCR (open to all)Goal: cash flow ≥ $200–400/month per door after all expensesI’m not looking for “get rich quick” or BRRR hype — just steady, boring, dependable cash flow that survives recessions.Appreciate any real-world experience 🙏Thanks!