Should I start a Self-Directed IRA?

[Chris Elliott]

I'll set the context of my question: I am 27 yr old self-employed individual with no IRA or 401K currently in place.

I've heard self-directed IRA's explained and I can definitely see the benefit to someone who already has money in retirement account that isn't getting much of a return, and would like to tap into the money.

My question is should someone that does not have money set up in any type of retirement put that money is a self direct IRA? My tax accountant has showed me the tax advantages. Is it just a better alternative to a traditional IRA or should everyone have one?