Can someone recommend an online program that is reputable?

How do you choose a location?

Alternately, some investors choose to forego the tax exposure and use the IRA in passive ways such as being a hard money lender to flippers or investing in rental income properties.So yes, there is a lot to learn, but once you get a handle on the framework of how a self-directed IRA fits into real estate investing, you should find that such a strategy can produce superior results for your retirement wealth building.

I would look at a few companies you like, based on location, reputation, splits and whatever else is important to you.  

If you must then always remember you choose a life partner it does not just happen.

There are more to choose from but this doesn't mean there are more deals.

The hardest obstacle for me to wrap my head around is what option to choose to acquire money to finance the purchase.

Of course, it all depends on the quality of the partner(s) you choose to invest with.Within the IRA realm, there are two business models.IRA Custodians (generally trust companies) can hold an account and document that account's investment into non-traditional assets.  

Choose between three different payment plans to them.

I would love to build connections with current investors in San Diego to learn first hand more about this game we are choosing to play to provide housing for people and make some money ourselves!