With self-directed IRA the sky is the limit.Of course you must be aware of the IRS prohibited transactions and be sure to stay away from those:https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-particip...Selecting appropriate investment option depends on many different factors such as your age and investment horizon, your risk tolerance, investment experience, etc.

I don't really have a support system (hence i've been on my own since age 14) so I go out seeking opportunities on my own, and calling various people for advice. 

They can wipe people out at any age.

You will pay a slightly higher interest rate when purchasing as an LLC “commercial loan”, but it’s worth it especially if you plan to scale up and grow a portfolio.

Hey Kevin, well done on getting an early start in investing, real estate, and taking the world by storm at such a young age! 

Depending on market, many investors calculate about 8% vacancy (1 month), depending on age 5-7% for CapEx, etc.

Most people will define a good market as one with a strong job market(i.e big name employers that employ white collar jobs, as these create the most secondary employment), a growing population 10% or greater, low crime, economic engines, etc.  

As you keep doing this your available cash grows exponentially.

I agree tougher words might not be easy but, you can not afford any of this and at your age will die upside down in debt in 40 years from just what you have here in debt. 

This may not be necessary depending on the age and location.