Did they send you a PDF or did you download it directly from Zillow?

The alternative is to set up a self-directed IRA, or better, a truly self-directed Solo 401k plan, invest in alternative assets, and then do the conversion.

I wondered about using your own vendors, here's what I found:"Currently, you cannot directly add your own contractors to Lula's network.

So there's not a way to know unless you find out from the seller directly.

I understand it depends on the deal, but just wondering if this is the right direction to consider. 

For now, staying local allows me to leverage my property management experience—most of which came from working directly for family and close business associates who were property managers, contractors, and business owners.

In that situation, I personally would not be investing in direct real estate at all.If I wanted exposure to a foreign real estate market, I would invest passively and hire a manager that has years more experience than I could ever hope to gain, and whose job is to supervise and watch everything and make sure that it goes well.Just my $0.02.And whatever you decide to do: good luck.

Those companies you asked about are more for deal finding and direct contact to off-market sellers, is that what you are looking for? 

The problem (as you have cited) is trying to understand what you need (you don't know what you don't know), where to get it, qualifying its source(s), and the validity and usefulness of all that.Pardon me if I've gone into this too much, but I meet many people with the same concerns that you are voicing and this is offered, as much as possible in direct response to your post.Please feel free to contact me if you have any comments or questions. 

@James Wise has a great video explaining this: As an investor focused agent with boots-on-the-ground here in Cleveland- I would love to help you find and purchase a solid property!