The property needs a fair bit of work both inside and out, but nothing major (all mechanicals are within 2 years new thankfully). 

You won’t get $500k loan on $900k equity with most Bay Area regionals like First Republic or Mechanics.

Example:- if this is an Emergency hang up and dial 911- If you are calling about a mechanical system not working such as A/C, Dishwasher, Plumbing, and etc.

I am currently going to school to become  a mechanical engineer, but I know that real estate is my passion and what I truly want to do.

New mechanicals, new roofs, tile in all bathrooms/kitchens, granite counter tops, hardwood floors, huge walk-in closets, laundry rooms, open floor plans, new siding, new windows, spray foam insulation.

The "mechanics" of it are that you transfer (no tax or penalty) your IRA to a provider like us that handles real estate as an investment for IRAs. 

Everything seems to be in working order, but I would like to get an inspection on the plumbing and mechanicals of the property.

It's easy in today's market of crypto-millionaires and fast-action TV shows to feel like you're missing out on a craze, but the worst thing to do is get yourself into a property without knowing the numbers behind it, resulting in sleepless nights, unpaid mechanics liens and potential foreclosure due to hasty decision making. 

Either a civil engineer or a mechanical engineer , depending on your area 

I would be using the cash to BRRRR.What is the best mechanism for my friend to be able to invest with me given he would only be writing a check or two a year to me and then receiving interest checks?