I know private investors and hard money are options but I was wondering how others got started if those are in fact the rules?  

You can flip, you can buy and hold, you can privately lend - you can do whatever you'd like with the money.What are people doing these days with chunks of cash?   

I know private investors and hard money are options but I was wondering how others got started if those are in fact the rules?

Without going into business name or field, The underlying tenant,'s business is a a private corporation that has about 40 locations (each in a separate LLC) across the US and have been expanding over the last several years.  

I'll be using hard money and private loans from my parents to build a portfolio of rentals in the area.

I am interested in finding a rental portfolio lender for a potential deal I am trying to secure.

All 3 units are 2/1 designs with new stainless appliances, granite counters, wood grain tile floors, nice lighting, and all have nice private outdoor yards, and plenty of parking.  

I usually give $1 earnest money deposit to the seller to secure the property and allow me to do my due diligence. 

I'll add that most custodians will have a minimum balance requirement, though you're correct- most of the IRA assets are generally invested in the LLC with that structure.Another reason these brokerages do not want to setup self-directed accounts is that they make their money from their clients' investments into securities.

You might be able to find a private/HML, depending on your bio, to fund part of that downpayment but not all and not cheaply.