Raising Investors – The Courage to Lead Money That Isn’t Yours

#Entrepreneur of the Week Corinne Barak Post 5

Raising Investors – The Courage to Lead Money That Isn’t Yours

I remember that moment, the first one.

When someone sat across from me, listened, looked me in the eyes –

And he said to me: “I am with you.”

He didn't just invest money. He invested trust.

And in that moment I felt it was real.

That he trusts me with his eyes closed –

And from this moment on, the responsibility is mine alone.

It's a moment you won't forget.

Because it is not related to the amount, not to the agreement – ​​but to the weight that another person's trust has on your shoulders.

True entrepreneurship doesn't start the moment you buy a property.

It begins when someone else gives you the opportunity – and believes that you will know how to lead.

Because raising investors isn't just about money. It's about relationships.

Some people think that raising an investor is about “talking nice” or “selling the dream.”

But the truth is, it's first and foremost about knowing how to be with someone on a journey.

As an entrepreneur, you become his anchor amidst uncertainty.

You need to know how to deal with questions, fears, worries –

And even when you yourself don't know what will happen – radiate confidence.

You need to know how to give space to the investor's emotions,

Understand where he comes from, what is important to him, and what values ​​guide him.

And this is precisely where an entrepreneur is measured.

Then comes the agreement phase – and with it the strategy.

There is more than one way to work with investors, and the choice depends on the nature of the deal, the nature of the investor – and most importantly, the trust between the parties.

Here are some common models:

– Fixed-interest private loan – the investor lends a certain amount to the project, receives interest (monthly or one-time), and the repayment is made at the end. Usually includes a legal agreement and sometimes also collateral in the property.

– Profit sharing – The investor receives a percentage of the final return, as agreed upon in advance. This is a slightly more open relationship, requiring a high level of trust and full transparency along the way.

– Full partnership in the project – both parties participate in decisions, financing, and risk. It’s more like a family business – with all the benefits and challenges that come with it.

– One-stage financing only – For example: the investor only enters into the purchase, or only into the renovation, or only into bridging loans. This also exists, mainly in projects where there is a specific need for cash.

And what is important to make sure of?

Everything is written in the agreement – ​​a phone call is not enough.

That the investor understands exactly when he receives the money, how much, and under what conditions.

That in the moment of truth – there will be no surprises for either side.

Entrepreneurship with investors is not just the art of leadership – it is also the engineering of clear agreements.

Those who are able to do this build a long-term business.

And when the money is not yours – the heart works differently.

It's carrying on your shoulders not only the project – but also your name.

Because there are no more excuses.

There is no “I didn’t know”, “I didn’t notice”, “the contractor was late”.

There is only one thing: you promised – and you are responsible.

It requires control over the smallest details, the ability to solve problems in real time,

And sometimes also taking on costs or difficult decisions –

Just to keep your word.

And it changes you. Really.

When someone puts their trust in you,

You can't remain the same entrepreneur who only acts from the gut.

You learn:

– Set boundaries.

– Speak in professional language.

– Write and read contracts.

– Document everything.

– Prevent problems.

– and communicate what is unpleasant.

But if you do it right – it's the biggest leap there is.

Raising investors opens doors to deals you wouldn't have reached on your own.

It teaches you to work as a team.

It holds you to high standards.

And that turns you from a person who does real estate – into an entrepreneur who leads processes.

So what do you need to know before recruiting an investor?

Know your deal by heart. Don't come in without knowing the numbers, deadlines, and risks.

Know who you are addressing. A suitable investor is a connection. Not all money is worth the price.

Set expectations in advance – down to the last detail. Contract, updates, schedules.

Maintain complete transparency. Even when everything gets complicated – right then.

And finally – a tip from me:

Before you recruit – ask yourself:

Would I give myself that money?

Would I like to work with someone like me?

If the answer is yes –

Then you will know that you are on the right path.

And if you have capital and are looking for a smart way to invest it –

I invite you to join me in projects where not only real estate is important, but also the path, values, and people who lead it.

I am looking for partners on the journey – those who want to understand, learn, and grow together.

Whether you have experience or are just starting out –

If trust, transparency, and serious leadership speak to you – talk to me.