My thinking is I can not as it probably works as I does in the stock market with my IRA.

You have zero control over the stock market, whereas when you do private lending, you have significantly higher control and contractually guaranteed return on your money.

To make a long story short.

This stands true for any/every investment segment in existence; stocks, ETF's, business ventures.

@Chris Seveney  I live in Abilene and operate a short term rental here.

It’s inexpensive to provide but can make a big impact.Comfortable Bedding: Investing in high-quality mattresses, pillows, and linens improves the guest experience and leads to better reviews, which can boost occupancy rates.Smart TV or Streaming Services: Offering Netflix, Hulu, or similar services is a low-cost way to enhance guest entertainment and stay competitive.Fully Stocked Kitchen: A well-equipped kitchen with basic appliances and utensils appeals to families and long-term guests, saving them money on dining out.Dedicated Workspace: If your property caters to remote workers, adding a small desk and ergonomic chair can set your listing apart.Outdoor Spaces: If your property allows, an outdoor seating area, fire pit, or hot tub can significantly increase your nightly rate and attract more bookings.Energy-Efficient Features: Guests appreciate eco-friendly options like LED lighting, smart thermostats, or solar panels, especially in eco-conscious markets.Keyless Entry: A smart lock is a relatively small investment but offers convenience and security, which many guests value.If you’re deciding on amenities to add, it’s always a good idea to research your local market.

Own and just keep it as a rental longterm/short term rental?

However, I'm short on cash (will be putting $20k of my personal money into this)  and I am exploring creative ways to source funds for the project.I’ve been quoted for a $100K HELOC on my primary residence with a 30/1m ARM at a 13.25% rate and APR, with an interest-only monthly payment of $1,016 and $3,825 in points.

@Desiree Board For your mix of long-term rentals (LTRs), short-term rentals (STRs), and house flipping, an LLC is ideal for liability protection and pass-through taxation.

In addition, they connected me to the preferred lenders who also helped with closing on the property within a short period time.