I would suggest doing some quick search for any specific questions you may have or post your questions here.I think you already know the general concept of self directed IRA and Checkbook IRA.

Hello @Samuel Edwards It's great to have you with us at BiggerPockets!

Their concept can be duplicate but you start small, a real estate licence, one renovation at the time, and eventually expanding into construction if that is what you want you can start where you are. 

If you are going to deploy cash like that I would have proof of concept before you spent more than 50k.

Edward Chan

I have the concept down, but would like some direction as to how to map my area and locate the best areas to drive before really going out and driving..... please help! 

@Edward Chan I'm currently investing in the AV down here in Los Angeles.  

I would save up enough to cover 3 months of monthly expenses, and then take the plunge into ownership.Also, the whole concept of the mortgage being cheaper than rent is generally overstated.

@Anthony Dooley, I don't think you fully understand the concept or what IRA is (or retirement accounts in general).

When it comes to the sourcing idea, which we can group in to brokering concepts, the question that begs to be asked is what can you know of the quality of loans, risk from the counter party or general pricing if you do not have a better grasp of loans in general?