The IRA component of a self-directed plan is the same as any other IRA when it comes to administrative issues like contributions, distributions, rollovers, beneficiaries, etc.  

With FHA 203k, every little things is going to be heavily scrutinized by underwriting (and the renovation component approximately doubles the amount of paperwork required) as these are high-risk loans.If it is NOT in financeable condition, you're stuck with hard money, 203k, FNMA HomeStyle reno, or cash, but not a vanilla mortgage.

Mike,I’m not sure how you vetted in hiring this PM other than their reviews, which is only one component of the equation.

Credit score is just one component of their application. 

Looking at the following article on BiggerPockets:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/6157/69626-nar...Since I am a complete newbie to GIS (I tried using GRASS GIS) and any GIS platform has an extreme learning curve, so far I have been unable to get all of the components working.

If you decide to move forward you may want to consider an owner-carry component with certain earn-outs to make sure you are not overpaying for the business.

If you want to use a cost appraisal, you must then subtract various depreciation factors to arrive at one component of a FMV appraisal.

I hate the HOA component.  

Yes this is a critical component in financing and overall return calculations like IRR and COC.

This is one difference between a self-directed IRA and the Solo 401k, as the IRA does not allow for participant loans.A few other Solo 401k benefits: Compared to an IRA, Solo 401k contribution limits are roughly ten times higher.There is no custodial requirement for the 401k.You don't need the additional expense and administration of an LLC to have checkbook control.There is a built in-Roth component whereas IRAs are either traditional or Roth, not both.A spouse can also participate in the same Solo 401k plan.The Solo 401k has additional tax benefits over an IRA when investing into real estate using leverage.The penalties for prohibited transactions are less severe, though it's best not to utilize this benefit :)