A self-directed IRA is not by any means a way for you to "use" your retirement savings. 

@Joe Meares If you are very confident in the deal and if you feel that you don't need an agent then go ahead and deal directly with your colleague.

If anything I hope to gain more knowledge in dealing with the large $10 mil plus transactions so I can develop confidence and comfort going forward. 

@Jeffrey Grieshop  Make your offer contingent upon  financing to protect your self.  

A lot of forum members are very knowledgeable in their respective fields related to real estate investing, whether that is real estate sales, wholesaling, flipping, rentals, lending, self-directed IRA and Solo 401k investing, or tax and legal guidance.The site has quite a few tools that can be helpful for new members.

Together they become a self sufficient entity that financially will support each other when they need repairs and become vacant.

Nice try self proclaiming club wolf pack but I'd say your the Mickey Mouse Club

You could then establish a self-directed IRA or 401(k) that could be invested into real estate. 

Regardless of the buy-in price, whatever market you chose to invest in, ensure that your confident in answering those questions.

Any funds that have to do with that self directed IRA have to go back into the IRA account.