Solo 401k plans are often quicker to setup and cost less money over time compared to most self-directed IRAs.If either the IRA or 401k are to obtain financing for a purchase, a non-recourse loan is required.

What do you want to obtain or learn from this conference? 

You can create a new LLC, obtain a new IRS Employer Identification Number (EIN), and open a new bank account specifically for the cottage.

I obtained a commercial loan that was a 1 yr interest only and required 25% down which I borrowed from my step father to be repaid after closing plus a $5000 payment.

Here are a few key considerations:Can you obtain a rent roll and T-12?

International MortgagesHow can I obtain mortgages for properties outside my current country?

When I asked why a seller would ever accept this, I was told quite emphatically the property requires work and therefore nobody can obtain financing so the proposed terms were the only way the seller could sell the property.

In our area, obtaining zoning is also a big pain requiring zoning board public meetings.

A good way to classify A - B - C - D properties are by the shirts your tenants are wearing.A Properties = White collar professionals wanting nicer amenities to entertain friends.B Properties = Blue collar working class, bread and butter cash flow tenants that respect the property.C Properties = T-Shirts week-to-week paycheck residents, usually a mix of Section 8 and working classD Properties = NO SHIRTS gathered on the front steps drinking 40's out of a paper bag at high noon.

On the other hand, I feel one of the main advantages of passive investments (via syndication/crowdfunding) is that I can hire a manager who has years more experience than I can ever hope to obtain myself.