I’m starting by using the resources available in this forum and educating myself on finding, analyzing, and financing deals. 

Small shop brokers that have access to multiple programs so that they aren't beholden to one or just a few loan programs will typically get the most competitive product for the borrower. 

He was at the heart (and brain) of a fantastic educational operation – one that was undervalued because he did not charge much for it.

I will say that I do know people who have worked with Lee in the past and like his educational programs.

You aren't guaranteed ANYTHING!

"You're buying a lease with a 10-year term - READ AND UNDERSTAND THE LEASE, ESPECIALLY FOR OUTS AND INCREASESDGs aren't too bad, but you walk a tightwire - Not enough biz and they want to close, great biz and they want a new place.Another question is what happens after 10 years on re-ups.  

When the IRA invests in real estate using debt not only does it have to be non-recourse but the IRS says, you can use leverage but since you aren't only using IRA money for this investment the retirement account is going to pay UBIT on the income generated because of the debt. 

My name is Ben and I am about a month into diving deep on real estate investing education.

The area has certain advantages like shelter from regulation risk (pretty much as low as anywhere in the country if you buy in the approved STR tourist zones) and long term security (people aren't going to stop going to Orlando anytime soon). 

I know that the general guidance is that emergency funds aren't to be invested, but given our financial security and the fact that we already have a personal e-fund in a safe, non-volatile location, would it still be crazy/unwise to invest this 15k in an S&P500 index fund in a brokerage?