The investments need to be done under the umbrella of the IRA, with no direct or indirect benefit to/from you - so all expenses are paid by the IRA and all income received (tax-sheltered) by the IRA. 

So in Portland they have very strict renters laws favoring the tenants and it can be very expensive to get them out of a residence and what I’m wondering is how to negotiate that to my benefit with this seller.

The pay is good, the benefits for my family are great and I generally like going to work in the morning (usually).This puts me in somewhat of a weird position.I've been wanting to wholesale since my work schedule is very random but very flexible and would work well for meeting with property owners.

A buddy who is 'making 20-30% returns' in direct Real estate investing is not giving you audited financial returns showing you that.There are good and bad REITS just like there are good and bad investment properties you can buy and there is also a certain amount of luck with each.

Still trying to come to terms on maximizing tax benefits.

Next, I read @Scott Trench - Set For Life, it really intrigued me even more about the benefits of house hacking a multi family property.

gives you great protection depending on your location and good tax benefits.

If you refinance and it costs you 3,000 dollars, and you save 100 dollars per month, you have to stay in the property for 30 months just to start seeing the benefit.  

Yes, especially in the South, many men will underestimate me, but that can also be a benefit, when sellers let their guard down more, when negotiating with a woman. 

So, if you buy one home for 453,100 (or more with a down payment) you are using all of your VA benefit.