In addition there are fixed maintenance fees that you have no control over.

That is where you already have the most knowledge, contacts, and experience ... that is where you will be able to learn the most hands on to grow all of these things ... that is where you will be able to maintain maximum control over your investments ... that is where you will be most able to assess and manage your risks.

If your goal is to control the project and not have 15 people sign off on "major decisions" this is awful advice.  

I long to have residual income that I control and not have to wait until end of year before the company decides that I can make more.

I have been involved in various areas of construction for over 20 years, with the last 5 being primarily spent as a project manager in the temperature control (HVAC) industry.

@Janette Richan if you are a motivated self starter I would suggest going with 100% broker and have control of where your training dollars go.If you want something more structured a team might be for you.I see no advantage in being with a big brand with "name recognition" if they are not feeding you leads.

The other thing to keep in mind is that in DC if you own 5 or more units you will be subject to rent control.

The most important are:1) No rent control on buildings built after 1995.2) No rent control on single family properties.3) Ability to reset rent to market rate after a rent controlled tenant moves out voluntarily.The bill being considered AB 1506 (Bloom) is drafted to revoke these protections.

As a checkbook holder and trustee, you have the control to fund these investments and the decision making authority to structure deals to your liking (shorter term, higher interest, etc.)I'm sure it's just how you chose to word it, but I will caution you anyway that "becoming a lender" sounds a bit like a business whereas what you are doing instead is directing your 401k to make passive investments.The key needs here are a way to contact and negotiate with those who may need loans and some appropriate loan paperwork to outline the terms and secure your 401k's interest in the investment.

Try to stay in control of everything you are responsible for.