Checkbook control can be a good self-directed IRA setup that can give you flexibility to invest in real estate on your terms.

Timelines, budgets, quality of finishes, they all need to go well for your exit and if your in bed with a GC that only cares about himself then all those things will not go right for you, but he'll still get his money.People really underestimate the following:1) The cash they need to close and carry the project2) How hard it is to have a GC stick to what they promise3) How long it may take to exit through a sale

REI is a long game, but, in my opinion it is the best way to build wealth.I would start by narrowing down your market. 

But, it is bad for landlords, long-term.

If the landlord or their employee did the work themselves, they must include a description of the work, how long it took, and the hourly rate they charged.

If you're goal is a long term hold, you're almost certainly going to do well even with a market rate deal in any of those states.

For me and my goals, I focus on long-term investing in residential single-family homes in Florida and Georgia.

Hello Joshua, we invest in West Texas area, all short-term rentals (4 1/2 years experience).

Love your mindset—real estate is a long game, and you're starting with the right attitude!

Negotiation tip #47, make it as simple as possible for the other party to accept your terms.