I have chosen the Cleveland area as I would like to purchase something near where a friend has bought his apartment complex.

Narrow your goal so you can become very comfortable with the niche you have chosen.   

See, you've chosen a result for persons here unless we "prove" different.

Your post gives me confidence to continue marching down my chosen path.

You can open and SDIRA or Solo 401k (if you qualify) with checkbook control cutting out the middle man and invest in alternative assets like Real estate, crypto, etc...only restriction is collectables.   

Here are some factors to help you make an informed decision:SDIRA vs. e-QRP:SDIRA (Self-Directed Individual Retirement Account):Allows for a broader range of investment options, including real estate.Provides more control over investment decisions.Requires custodial services, and there may be fees associated with the SDIRA provider.Strict rules and regulations to ensure compliance with IRS guidelines.e-QRP (Enhanced Qualified Retirement Plan):Similar to a 401(k) but with enhanced features for greater flexibility.Generally, more streamlined than SDIRA with fewer administrative requirements.Allows for real estate investments, business investments, and more.May offer more control and fewer restrictions compared to SDIRA.Financing Considerations:Both SDIRA and e-QRP can be used for financing, but the terms and conditions may differ.Check with your chosen custodian or plan administrator to understand the borrowing rules and any potential penalties.Tax Implications:Understand the tax implications of using retirement funds for real estate investments.Consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance and to minimize any adverse tax consequences.Market Conditions:Consider the current real estate market conditions in the location where you plan to buy the beach house.Evaluate potential risks and rewards, especially in the context of your investment horizon.Long-Term Strategy:Since you're planning to work for another five years and potentially sell the house later, ensure that your investment aligns with your long-term financial goals.Interest Rates and Economic Conditions:Monitor interest rates and economic conditions, as they can impact the timing and profitability of your real estate investment.Professional Advice:Consult with financial advisors, tax professionals, and legal experts to get personalized advice based on your specific financial situation and goals.Due Diligence:Perform thorough due diligence on the property, renovation costs, potential rental income, and local market trends.Remember that real estate investments, especially with retirement funds, require careful planning and adherence to regulations.

In my opinion , buy and hold properties, build long term return on investment and wealth, I have done turnkey properties And made quick money, only to return to the market to try to find another deal , took me about a year .to find the next one to fit in my parameters that I have chosen for myself.

Spend all day on the phone with your markets, and you'll probably gravitate toward one market in particular.Book a flight to your chosen market and schedule in-person meetings.

That is an area where people have willful ignorance because the facts don’t back up their chosen party. 

I would not have chosen a Section 8 tenant, but this tenant has apparently paid consistently for 3 years.