The big concern I have with this asset class is the control element.

It appears we're already on our way to seeing national rent controls which means LTR's may not even be a safe haven.

Rent Control Implications: The risk of an ADU bringing a single-family home under rent control depends on the local jurisdiction and regulations - it's not something I understand to affect our area.

The check book control package look attractive, at $1095 after a July 4th $200 discount :-) https://www.broadfinancial.com/self-directed-ira-plans-custodian-checkbook-control/I will need to set up one with pretax 401K , then another with after tax Roth IRA, so, want to make sure to control the expenses/cash flow of start up costs. 

A service animal is a medical device, not a pet.

In the future, NEVER give up financial control for something that you are responsible for filing the taxes on. 

In addition, one of my mom's "friends" is in control of the trust.

Securing a sponsor can be challenging, especially when they have concerns about your capabilities to manage the property and keep it profitable.So, let me share a suggestion that might make a potential sponsor more comfortable:Offer to have them oversee the asset and property management aspects, including the control over cash flow.

You may pay a bit more and make a little less, but playing the long term game is key in real estate.The types of structures could be lump sum (one price) or cost plus (meaning you pay the cost of material and labor plus a flat fee—more of an open-book model).I see some investors who want to pay for ALL the materials, which is excellent for the investor (more control of finishes & cost) and general contractor (if they are getting paid well).  

@Nathan Gesner  Typically true, Only got one animal control call on a single family yapper.