Self directed IRA investing

[Randy Dulac]

I have a few IRAs. I have a Roth, traditional, and a self directed IRA that I hold precious metals in. I am thinking about transferring money from my traditional into a self directed IRA to buy and hold property. I have a few questions though.

1 Can I use the same self directed IRA that I hold the precious metals in?

2 I only have enough money in the traditional IRA to be used as a down payment on a property. If I need to add more money to the IRA, because of unforeseen expenses, will that be legal? Currently I am only allowed to add $5500 per year.

3 If I sell the property to upgrade, would I have to do a 1031 exchange even though it is already in a tax deferred account?

4 Is there a better approach to IRA investing?