Which self directed retirement is the best choice? SDIRA? SDIRA Checkbook? SDIRA LLC checkbook?

[Jennifer Handlin]

I have been doing a lot of reading on all the options on self directed IRA investing. There is SO much out there... and everyone seems to be saying different things.

I want to pick the right vehicle to move $$ into my retirement.

Currently have a SIMPLE IRA with 100K to invest in flips/rentals.

My current ( side job :) is Flips and rentals! Been active with both.

Would like to buy the next flip as a retirement investment.

HERE IS THE OPTIONS OUT THERE:

1) Self directed IRA with companies like Equity trust. From what I gather it could cost more, slower option for recovering money(ie Ernst $, closing $, paying contractors), and harder to handle for a flip.

2) SDIRA checkbooks. Not sure which company is a good option here( suggestions please) Are these safe?? Insured? Sounds like a easy way to write checks, but need to manage my involvement, and not sure the steps to get into one and out of one once your done with that type of investing.

3) SDIRA checkbook LLC Okay... not sure if its truly a "check book option" but it seems to have its benefits with low yearly investments with account holder. Can't find info on fees or many companies that offer this.
[b]
[u]My concerns or needs.

*I would want to GM a rehab project. Is there one better suited for this. Can I do this??

*I read that a flip in an IRA is TAXED 35% is this true for all the vehicles? There is a nice post of this, but it seems silly. If you know how to make money flipping why be penalized for building your retirement.

*Is there the option to move some of the $$ out of the self directed account and into a brokerage mutual fund account in the future to diversify.

*I've read that checkbook IRS are dangerous... may not be legal?

* I'm not a fan of having a fee for each check. If I'm rehabbing a house I'm writing many checks. Also how do you pay for materials if your not using a checkbook product?? It would be nice to have a debit card for those transactions.

Any feed back would be HELPFUL!

I am also planning on flipping a house for my mother and or a rental house.

I am familiar with needing to create distance, but at what point to you stop assisting in your investment? is directing OKAY?