@Robert Williams , I agree that the square footage could be off but if I do use it as a metric, I try to use the public records # because at least the tax assessor is using the same methodology (in theory).

A self directed IRA only changes how you can invest with an IRA, but the underlying fundamentals of the IRA being a tax-sheltered RETIREMENT savings plan are not changed in any way.There are methodologies such as a Substantially Equal Periodic Payment (SEPP) whereby you can begin taking distributions from an IRA prior to age 59 1/2 without the 10% penalty, but this is complex.Your question is best addressed to a CPA or CFP who can discuss your current income needs, earnings, age, and retirement income needs.  

That just seems like ancient history.

Is there a proper documentation process/legal methodology for closing in escrow that goes along with this?

I'm not sure about the methodology used to arrive at the findings, but based on my own local knowledge of the individual areas, the information was pretty accurate. 

Unfortunately, I have another book I'm working on before those, and I haven't been making as much progress on the other book as I was hoping anyway...While Chris' point above is reasonable (a book won't teach you everything you need to know), the general methodology can be learned from reading about new construction projects. 

Definitely start by reading the Ultimate Beginners Guide http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingOnce you have a better understanding of the various methodology of real estate investing, start refining your research to things that interest you. 

I won't be moving until sometime in 2016 so I want to start learning as much as I can now to be in a better position to invest not only here in my back yard but all around the world throughout my travels.My goals for REI: are currently to get my first deal done using the methodology of creative financing by the end of 2015.

The methodology for an appraisal is quite different than what you're doing with this spreadsheet.

The methodology for that study has come under fire.