I think some people invest in debt via the Roth, which is supposed to be an allowable play.As far as a retirement portfolio... 

This is definitely making me rethink if it's a worthwhile gamble (especially considering the owner that is bey foreclosed on is supposedly a lawyer).

If these sponsors are not doing SOMETHING to generate income how are are they suppose to right the ship on their failed projects. ??? 

Just part of it I suppose! 

Lastly Jim I am surprised it took you this long :)  AS you know one of the main rules on BP is operators / sponsor etc are suppose to divulge that they are in business and not pretend they are something else and they do it by Omission .  

Suppose you have a wholesaler with a purchase contract ready to sell to another buyer.

Later in the day, I was set up with a call with Peter because we raised concerns about paying $10k–$15k upfront, especially since we’re supposed to be “partners” in these deals.

Interest adds to your tax base not deduct from itI suppose his question is if he is able to have deductions against the income earned through the notes.I.E.

I mean what Contractor in their right mind would do 23K worth of work and not even mention it was going to cost that much until days after they supposedly finished? 

I know we're not supposed to talk politics, but the reality is, it's politicians that set the policies that affect real estate and construction, so it is relevant.