Directed IRA setup and fee structure is a bit different than most SDIRA custodians in that they charge a fee, based on owning and "IRA/LLC" which is entirely self directed through a bank account that is owned by the IRA, for which the IRA beneficiary is typically the manager. 

If you are hiring bottom of the barrel people, maybe they will work for that structure, but the sophisticated and quality property managers will not.

On top of this, I always structure contracts on larger jobs to protect me.

What makes their commission structure different from other boutique or brokerage firms? 

I'm not looking at a 10 unit apartment building which requires a commercial loan - different amortization time frame, structure etc.

Focus on running the numbers and what's on the market and how you can structure an offer that makes the deal work for you and the seller. 

We have also been told, to different degrees of directness, that companies that are early adopters of non-traditional treasury structures are discouraged as customers. 

@James Cress Get an expert opinion and hire a structural engineer.

I could see a more typical structure to be 75% bank loan, 15% seller second, 10% cash from you and your partner. 

The first test is to try calling them to see if they answer, ask about processes, ask for their fee structure so you can see ALL the fees, ask about their adaption plan for the property, and interview a few.