Before retirement, with high W2 income, at one point, my deductions wouldn't be capped if I was professional, so you win some, you lose some.My CPA was very helpful when it came to depreciation though.

Investing took a back seat and I was playing "semi-retired".

What is "full retirement age" in your explanation above?

I retire in less than a year an a half and will be relocating to central Oregon. 

Basically, you can do one deal then retire!

Hopefully this post isn't too long...My situation:* I am interested in investing in real-estate partnerships in my retirement accounts.* To complicate things, I currently have a traditional IRA (which I have rolled over previous 401k's into).

@Franky JuwanaFollowing are the similarities and differences between the solo 401k and the self-directed IRA.The Self-Directed IRA and Solo 401k Similarities Both were created by congress for individuals to save for retirement;Both may be invested in alternative investments such as real estate, precious metals tax liens, promissory notes, private company shares, and stocks and mutual funds, to name a few;Both allow for Roth contributions;Both are subject to prohibited transaction rules;Both are subject to federal taxes at time of distribution;Both allow for checkbook control for placing alternative investments;Both may be invested in annuities;Both are protected from creditors;Both allow for nondeductible contributions;Both are prohibited from investing in assets listed under I.R.C. 408(m); andNeither may be invested in your own business.  

There are few options:1) Custodial self-directed IRA. 2) Checkbook IRA, allows account holder bypass the custodian/administrator and be able to make investment, pay investment related expenses without using a middle man. 3) Truly self-directed Solo 401k, custodian is not required, offers checkbook control over your retirement funds, contributions up to $60K, exempt from taxation on leverages real estate and more.

We are creating a solid cash flow for retirement.

My friends and family know that my rentals are my retirement income -- I use this money to put food on MY table and pay MY bills.