Self-Directed Solo 401k

[Troy DeLong]

I've been self employed for a little over 3 months now and am looking to move my Vanguard 401k funds (formerly 'employer sponsored') into a Solo 401k account so I can use that money to invest in Real Estate. Is this possible to do without a 'Self-Directed Custodian Account'? (see below)

I've received free consultations from the following:
* Safeguard Advisors - $1375 setup fee, $125/yr (starting 2nd year)
* Discount Solo 401k - $575 setup fee, $125/yr (starting 2nd year)
* IRA Financial Group - $999 setup fee, $199/yr (starting 2nd year)

Has anyone worked with any of these companies and is the service worth the money? Is using a company like one of these the only way you can access your 401k money to invest in Real Estate, or is there a way you can spend the time to learn and do all the steps/paperwork yourself?