You can open a Self-Directed IRA and use the IRA funds to buy a house using a Non-recourse loan. 

Single family or multifamily, flips or rentals, new developments in light areas or infill lots?

Caulking a bathtub for a plumber is the easiest job he could charge money for, short of charging to lite a pilot light on a furnace or water heater.  

In light of this, I have been exploring the possibility of pursuing creative finance options, specifically seller finance deals, as a potential means to achieve my goals.

I am only an aspiring investor, but I am a local resident of Niagara Falls, NY and I am hoping I can shed some light on your question about the winters:) I have worked in the tourism industry in the past, my husband still works in tourism.

Quote from @Shawn Questa: A few times I've reached out to Cash Buyers and they would tell me that they are a part of an Investment Group and that they are ready to quickly Close Deals would be happy to work with me.Later I would come to find out that they are actually a Group of Wholesalers, like me.I guess I would prefer to Work directly with the Investor, Cash Buyer or Flipper. 

What are the key benefits of investing as an LP compared to direct ownership?

@Steve EnglehartGet your retirement funds into a self directed IRA.

There is recessed lighting throughout the unit, I am looking to get about 1,600-1,750 for the unit.

Don’t forget about direct mail campaigns as well.