If your portfolio is a good deal you won't have an issue finding buyers.If you truly have control of a package is one thing, if you are trying to play match maker with no real control, that is a weaker position.

You could certainly use your skills to subsidize your income while you break into the game.

@Derek A GriffinInvesting an IRA into real estate is purely a diversification play. 

If you want to do that in the RE world, you should explore wholesaling, that is the only way I am aware that you can still be in the game and network without having to have any money.

Building on Omar's good advice, I would say it is more difficult to succeed in investing without a game plan in mind.

I play along when cold called by the refi call center guys, probably get my credit run once every 3 months while playing along.

Good luck -getting in the game is important so don’t get paralysis by analysis. 

Since I don't currently have an agents license I am considering wholesaling as my "in" into the game.

If an investor isn't game for research, due dil and some increased time/effort, then a self-directed IRA may not be a good fit. 

Fannie will give you the best rates and terms on 1-4  units) If its more than 4 units, then more details come into play?