Gene Trowbridge has a great book called ”It’s a Whole New Business” which is very educational.  

I’d do a heat pump systemNo matter what fuel you choose today you could have a compelling reason to regret that decision at some point in the future based solely on price.

If you haven't already, I recommend subscribing to the BP podcast - I've been investing for three years now and educating myself on the options and opportunities in real estate all started in the Bigger Pockets podcast.

I signed a purchase agreement today.

@Cody Furman Educated guess, yes it is legal. 

The education I received through the podcast was invaluable in giving me the knowledge and confidence to do the first deal.

@J MacArthurBuying a home you wish to live in in the future with your IRA likely does not make sense.The only way you can use that home personally is to take the home out of the IRA as a distribution in-kind at the present value when you take the distribution.So, if the IRA purchases a home as an investment today for $100K, and 5 years down the line that home is worth $125K, then when you take a distribution, you are taking out $125K all at once and will get hammered on taxes. 

The education I received through the podcast was invaluable in giving me the knowledge and confidence to do the first deal.

We have an idea on what today but are seeking advice on hOw to maximize our effort.

It's a huge source of education and inspiration.