The appraisal was actually a BPO Broker Price Opinion that I disputed since the person only did a drive by of my property and compared it to other properties (comps) that they had full knowledge of upgrades for the interior and exterior.

Also, thank you so much for the "Creative" elements you described (incorporating fees, financing them, etc).

The real estate is effectively inventory in a sales business, just like refrigerators or stereos.Passive sources of income such as interest (i.e. hard money lending), rents from real property, dividends and royalties are not subject to UBIT.This concept is documented in IRS publication 598.The ROBS program is an entirely different structure as compared to a self directed IRA.  

To be more successful, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.

All but one owner was satisfied with their repairs, in which the nature of this particular problem...tuck pointing.... was exactly similar and damage comparable. 

There is really only one or two comps in the area to compare to.  

The price is great at $245,000 with comparables at $400,000.

I watch Craig's List and price mine comparably.

The material cost is roughly the same compared to hardwood or laminate, but labor will run a little higher.

Not sure how they would compare on inspections on either the quality or pricing though.