I am not saying that is a bad thing as you SHOULD be paid for your services, only to point out your opinionated statement does not come without bias.Alfred,If you are not "too hot" on retirement or tax deferred vehicles, you need to get hot as they are one of the greatest strategies/advantages to planning for retirement.I would NOT suggest you pull the cash out with your 20 month deferred plan as you will not only pay the marginal tax rate on the withdrawl, but you will also get hit with an additional 10% penalty.That said, you will basically end up with only 1/2 of your funds after taxes and penalties.I would strongly urge you to reconsider that course of action and educate yourself more on the subject, both right here on BP and any other sources such as books, news articles, programs, etc.If you are self-employed, I believe the solo 401k and now, the 401(a) plan to be a great choice over the SDI.For those you are not self employed, the SDI is a great feature, much more beneficial than IRA accounts managed by others who ONLY care about how many fees and commissions they can earn from you, regardless of the fact that you make or lose money.There are several legal and moral strategies to use qualified plan funds and benefit yourself outside of the plan all while benefiting the plan at the same time.

Hard money loans are loans from private individuals rather than banks.

Yeah, investing at a distance is not my first choice, but it's tough finding properties in my price range the SF Bay Area.

My company and I mainly work with individuals who currently receive monthly payments from selling their homes, business, commercial properties, etc. and match them with investors for a commission.

In this "better area" you should have a better choice of tenants to pick from as well.

I prefer to work with individuals who don't have to deceive to build their business.

Could I get some input on what would be a better choice long term- as I would like to have rental properties as part of my long term retirement plan.Are these properties cash flowing enough or should I sell 1 or both and put down even more $ down or invest elsewhere.Primary residence paid $63,500 6 1/2 years ago current appraised value $81,000Current Rental property(wife's former house) paid $50,000 5 years ago market value approx $60,000.Sorry this is so worded.

Lena, you have already made a good choice by joining this forum, you will find a lot of great advice on here.

Vinyl is my first choice,,,cause renters sure dont take care of wood!!

Furthermore, an investor doesn't have a choice in participating or not in the 50% Rule.