457 Conversion to self-directed

[Charles Andrews]

Hi - I'm interested in converting a portion of my 457(b) - about $80k - into a self-directed IRA, obviously for purposes of RE investing.

After that, it seems logical to form a LLC around those funds.

A couple questions:

• I'm leaning toward engaging a CPA for the process; is this overkill, or a good idea?
  
• Is the LLC something that should be immediately created, or wait until I find a deal I want to pursue?
• I just finished 'Tax Strategies for the Savvy Real Estate Investor', and it was a great read. Any other books anyone would recommend that address this area?

Thanks in advance,

Charles Andrews