A tidy profit, plus confidence to tackle the next project solo.On the topic of self-directed IRAs: While they’re fantastic for gaining experience and diversifying into real estate over time, they can feel restrictive if your main goal is scaling quickly.Here’s what I’d focus on:Using Equity Wisely: A HELOC or cash-out refinance could unlock funds to pursue a flip or duplex without touching your 401(k).Partnering Smartly: Your realtor friend sounds like a great resource.

Using the search function gave me this, hope it helps https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/62/topics/1211224-nyc-c...

Hi James,I personally don't have enough experience to answer your question, but there is some helpful stuff in a similar discussion here: http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/52/topics/1779...You will find related discussions to any forum discussion you are reading at the bottom of each forum discussion page, and they can often help you find posts that answer your question.  

I've done a lot of research on this topic as both an investor and as one who assists other investors in exploring this strategy.

In most cases, neither is warranted.Warning: I am not an attorney, and this can be a complicated topic.

You should connect with @Fed Finjap; I just saw on another post that he is also buying in the Chicago neighborhood ofLakeview and he recently went through some lessons learned on a 3 flat in Chicago.Check out his post:  https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/922/topics/1223655-refl...

Again, the BiggerPockets store has some books on this topic, or you can learn about it by watching podcasts, reading blogs, and interacting on the forum.

Regarding solo 401k, maybe this is slightly off topic, I use equity trust and they say you cannot have any employees other than a spouse.

https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/432/topics/1171472-pep-...I think this is most recent bp thread on lane Kawaoka PEP fund etc

Again, the BiggerPockets store has some books on this topic, or you can learn about it by watching podcasts, reading blogs, and interacting on the forum.