However, there is such a thing as a self-directed solo 401k plan which is very popular for those who are self employed.Following are the similarities and differences between the solo 401k and the self-directed IRA.The Self-Directed IRA and Solo 401k Similarities Both were created by congress for individuals to save for retirement;Both may be invested in alternative investments such as real estate, precious metals tax liens, promissory notes, private company shares, and stocks and mutual funds, to name a few;Both allow for Roth contributions;Both are subject to prohibited transaction rules;Both are subject to federal taxes at time of distribution;Both allow for checkbook control for placing alternative investments;Both may be invested in annuities;Both are protected from creditors;Both allow for nondeductible contributions;Both are prohibited from investing in assets listed under I.R.C. 408(m); andNeither may be invested in your own business.  

Betting that is going to happen again while new smart participants have entered the market(sophisticated players like black rock) and retail (everyone who watches finance youtube knows about real estate) I think is a foolish bet.

It seems like this is one of the biggest challenges for people in real estate.This will not be a popular post, but taking a course on raising money will not magically raise money for someone.

The best thing you can do to protect yourself is to get a rock solid lease and good insurance and make sure you keep your property maintained and provide all the safety equipment required by law.I only own one property atm and I don't even own the house I live in so I don't think the risk is worth the cost but once I get a few more properties I will definately get an LLC for my properties.

@Paul B. you're right, the terms @John Stanley mentioned are good terms and contrary to popular belief there are groups  who offer deals without acquisition fees. 

It is the most popular software in the industry and all CPAs know how to navigate it which is nice.QBO has a great projects tool that allows you to see all of your ongoing expenses for a particular project. 

B grade property walks are attended by my children to run around and tell me which bedrooms they would pick if it was their home.43605, 43608, 43609 are the popular zipcodes for bottom-budget value purchases...I manage a ton in these areas and my personal portfolio contained over 40 43608 properties at the peak. 20% of these properties will be crazy money earners, 20% will be astounding money pits, and 60% will fare average.I have evolved into the nicer 43612/43613 for my personal portfolio and find the properties earn consistently and far smoother than my 43608 houses. ($80k renting for $1200 vs $40k renting for $800 multiplied by the ratio above vs boring consistency of the nicer area) Oh and I have zero excitement for apartments.

You have to be living under a rock (if you are a MF investor) to not know the challenges MF is facing right now.

I’m in search of existing investors or STR operators in Utica, IL, Ottawa, IL, and the nearby Starved Rock region for potential gatherings.

I just purchased a lot in a popular vacation area.