Almost everyone says you should invest in your work’s 401k, or open your own Roth or Ira.

Sounds like this was a TIC setup which seems an unusual investment for an SDIRA (and problematic, from what I understand.)Aren't you the beneficiary of the inherited IRA? 

Hey @Ben Lindquist - I used Midland IRA and things went fine.My experience was pleasant and helpful. 

I aim to allocate a small amount of funds toward a Roth IRA and a high-yield savings account (HYSA).My current job offers limited opportunities for overtime, so I’m exploring side work related to real estate, such as part-time property management or similar roles.

Hey Rud,Do not forget you can invest in Syndications within a retirement account, such as an IRA or Solo401K. 

Does that take their IRAs into account?

Like others in the post, interest income is portfolio income.What you can do is invest a self directed IRA/roth and put this money into notes.

My wife’s inheritance gone, my Ira gone, had several other things in my life going on.

By private money, Im assuming you mean local people lending out their IRA funds and personal funds.

American IRA is hosting a live session on End-of-Year Considerations for Your Self-Directed IRAs and 401(k)s on December 4th at 12:00 PM.