That way they get paid on both ends and hopefully establish a long term relationship.

Until I’m established financially, I plan to continue educating myself about real estate through the use of the Bigger Pockets website along with its podcasts and recommended books.

I've been advised as I will advise you, save at least $5,000, establish a good line of credit, make sure all of your financials are straight, and keep learning as much as possible. 

Buy before you get out, so you dont have to establish a whole other job with the VA.Congrats on Retirement, and Welcome.

Metro districts are the way for many of the communities to build the infrastructure so be highly aware of the taxes when looking in the area.As for established builds.

Qualify for a few properties and then buy into larger properties where it is not an issue or you can still  go with a local bank but have established a track record by then.New buyers entering commercial typically do not understand the debt markets and how that impacts a potential investment.

An option is completely different, it gives the optionee (buyer) the right to purchase, the value can be established over the term of the option as prices increase or rental income may increase over time.

How to best accomplish that will depend on your situation and goals, and the type of self directed plan that will work best for you.Caution must be exercised to establish the right plan structuring and track the individual participation of each IRA into an investment carefully.  

However, talking with previous owner, it was part of that property.How do I determine current or establish ownership?

What your getting is an established expert team in one place.