Key Takeaways:
- There is no fixed timeline for raising capital in a syndication, because outcomes depend heavily on the sponsor’s network and effort.
- The size and quality of your investor network is the single biggest determinant of how quickly capital can be raised.
- Capital raising is labor-intensive and relationship-driven, not a passive process where money appears simply by posting an offering online.
- First-time syndicators typically take longer to raise capital, due to lack of experience, process, and established investor trust.
- A compelling deal story and clear investment thesis materially shorten fundraising timelines, especially for average-sized networks.
Transcript
The Question Every New Syndicator Asks
A huge question weighing on most new syndicators’ minds is: How long does it take to raise money for a syndication?
My name is Tilden Moschetti. I’m a syndication attorney with the Moschetti Syndication Law Group. Quite often I get the question from new syndicators or new fund managers, “Just how long do you think this is going to take? For me to raise this 2 million? 4 million? 10 million? 20 million?”
Why the Answer Is Always “It Depends”
It’s a frank question, and it is probably the most difficult question I have to answer because it falls down to that “it depends” answer.
I’ve seen syndicators raise money in incredibly short periods of time, 24 hours, very small amounts of time, lots of money. I have one investor, one syndicator, who I work with who raised $500 million in four hours. That is definitely not the norm. So don’t take that as something you should expect. It is extremely unusual.
Realistic Expectations From a First Syndication
A lot of times, it takes a lot longer. My first deal that I raised money for was $3 million, and it took me six months. This was before I was practicing as a real estate syndication attorney and before I understood Regulation D. I learned through trial and error, which takes much longer.
Six months is a very long time, and I was fortunate the asset could wait that long. That experience became the foundation for understanding how capital raising really works.
Experience Shortens the Timeline
Now, it takes much less time. Not only because I’ve built an investor base, but because I understand the process and the amount of work involved. This is why the timeline question is so difficult—it changes as your experience and infrastructure grow.
The Two Variables That Determine Fundraising Speed
It really comes down to two factors.
The first is the size and strength of your investor network. If you have a large network of high-net-worth individuals who already trust you, fundraising can move very quickly. If you don’t, and you rely on advertising or relationship-building from scratch, it will take significantly longer.
The second factor is how hard you work. Raising money is not passive. It is not as simple as posting an offering online and waiting for funds to arrive. That narrative is misleading unless you already have a massive brand and audience.
Why Capital Raising Is Real Work
If you don’t have a big name and you expect capital to come in automatically, you will be disappointed. Fundraising requires consistent outreach, conversations, follow-ups, and relationship building.
That said, the work is often enjoyable. You’re talking to people about strategy, vision, and projects you believe in. But it is still work, and it must be treated that way.
Average Timeframes for Raising Capital
When you combine your existing network and your effort level, you get a rough sense of timing.
As a very general average:
- Raising $1 million often takes about six weeks
- Raising $3 million may take two to two-and-a-half months, assuming steady effort and a reasonable network
These are not guarantees. You may be faster or slower depending on your situation, your story, and how unique your deal is.
The Role of Story and Belief in the Deal
What you’re syndicating matters. You need a compelling reason for investors to care. A strong story, clear strategy, and authentic belief in the project dramatically increase your chances of success.
This is why it’s difficult to give a concrete answer. There are simply too many variables.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
Raising capital is not effortless, but it is achievable. With the right amount of work, a solid network, and a deal you genuinely believe in, money can be raised.
I hope that helps—even if it’s a frustratingly honest answer. If you’d like to talk about your specific project, I’d be happy to help as a syndication attorney. Give my office a call.