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.

My Chase Saphire Reserve card gives me 3 points for every dollar I spend on travel/dining, which equates to 3% back in value, plus all the ancillary things I get from the card like free airport lounge access, free rental car insurance, auto rental upgrades, TSA precheck.Most of my spending is on dining/bars, so I use that to get the better return.

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. 

I am currently employed at an auto auction, but am interested in starting a career in real estate.

True, you can have any Realtor set you up with auto-emails and searches, but then you're at the mercy of their responsiveness, etc.I'm working on building a portfolio of properties outside of the metro area, and as such, I'm working with an agent who specializes in that target market.

They are some of the most capable carpenters in the world.I have a ex-roommate that was in a very similar way from an auto accident. 

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

apparently I still owe my mortgage...just odd I had to call to get any info, such as new account number, setting up auto-pay, etc.

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?