What makes a self-directed IRA custodian different is that they are not purely connected to the public exchanges and limited to investing in stocks, bonds and funds, but rather have the staff training and paperwork to document the IRA's investment in the more individualized transactions that occur when investing in real estate, notes and other non-traditional assets. 

What makes a self-directed IRA custodian different is that they are not purely connected to the public exchanges and limited to investing in stocks, bonds and funds, but rather have the staff training and paperwork to document the IRA's investment in the more individualized transactions that occur when investing in real estate, notes and other non-traditional assets. 

But as I mentioned somewhere in this lengthy thread I think it matters what your goal is  if it's building massive wealth you absolutely need leverage.

Most have unique financing elements not found in market rate deals ranging from favorable bond financing to property tax exceptions.

Exempt transactions, which says: Except as otherwise provided in this Chapter, the following transactions are exempted from G.S. 78A-24 and G.S. 78A-49(d):...(5) Any transaction in a bond or other evidence of indebtedness secured by a lien or security interest in real or personal property, or by an agreement for the sale of real estate or chattels, if the entire security interest or agreement, together with all the bonds or other evidences of indebtedness secured thereby, is offered and sold as a unit.

@Ken Boone This was incredibly helpful and I really appreciate the lengthy response.  

I can put $80k in corporate bonds and make $500 a month in cashflow.

I would look for properties on the east side of golf manor as the west side butts up with Roselawn and Bond Hill.

I view it as more of a bond-like asset to offset the risks of other investments that I own that are more volatile, like stocks and coastal real estate.

@Jesus Santoyo lesson learned, this is why we recommend a sewer scope to all our investors before they buy.Cutting open the city street and/or sidewalk requires the contractor to post a $10k bond - so the city can hire someone to complete if the contractor doesn't finish.There are options to install a liner as most older pipes are 6 inch and current requirement is only 3-4 inch.