I found many are very area specific (they may only lend in one county of the state), but they also know the area very well and can make decisions quickly.The best advantage is that the rates are much lower than private or HML, and it's only one closing.  

Account Closed feel free to send me a pm and I'd be glad to discuss your specific matter with you offline.

Maybe it's state specific where you are doing licensed work without a license that opens you up to surrogate on? 

I should specificity that I'm looking to buy another foreclosure that I can fix up and either sell, rent, or possibly move into. 

This is obviously location and property specific, but we're working with partial numbers so far...let's assume you'd want to stay in the cabin on vacation:)  If we find a place for $300k with 25% down at 5% interest, conduct $50k of value-add rehab...renting it 12 weeks/year breaks the project even on a cash-flow basis incorporating all costs.  

Are you looking in a specific area or neighborhood of Philadelphia?

Welcome to the site.I focus on commercial for investments specifically retail.

The current SDIRA administrator I am talking to says it's not mentioned specifically, and it's considered a gray area;  that most tax attorneys recommend to avoid it.

Thanks They are state-specific.  

I almost at a point where I don't even bother with home inspectors.Some other common issues with older houses, particularly if you will be renting:  lead paint, asbestos, mold (although I find older houses are leaky enough that, as long as the roof drains well, air movement through the building is good and prevents moisture buildup), steep staircases, narrow hallways.But you MUST MUST MUST do a walk-through with an experienced contractor (one who specifically has experience renovating older houses/buildings) prior to placing an offer.