Recently heard about this and my Son-in-law is trying it in a small way.
This site connects lenders and borrowers. You bid on rates and can just lend a small amount if you want.
They do credit checks and assign collection agencies. Supposedly a smallish default rate - NOW, anyway - so you just need a few good loans to pay off at 8% - 20%, or so, to make money.
Doubt if I will do it, tho. I'm suspicious of everybody and everything! Forbes sez Hoenig from Cap Pig is into it. Don't know if that is good or bad...
Might be a way for you to diversify, but don't get mad at me if it all comes crashing down!
http://prosper.com/
Article: http://biz.yahoo.com/fo/070223/c100d49a632ce8d6f0a758f2dc190126.html?.v=1&.pf=loans
This site connects lenders and borrowers. You bid on rates and can just lend a small amount if you want.
They do credit checks and assign collection agencies. Supposedly a smallish default rate - NOW, anyway - so you just need a few good loans to pay off at 8% - 20%, or so, to make money.
Doubt if I will do it, tho. I'm suspicious of everybody and everything! Forbes sez Hoenig from Cap Pig is into it. Don't know if that is good or bad...
Might be a way for you to diversify, but don't get mad at me if it all comes crashing down!

http://prosper.com/
Article: http://biz.yahoo.com/fo/070223/c100d49a632ce8d6f0a758f2dc190126.html?.v=1&.pf=loans