IN the case of the woman on Facebook that you reference, we did not engage her on FB, but did reach out to her in person with our Dallas Management.  

Engaging in open communication with the seller and conducting thorough due diligence on the property and local market conditions are critical steps.

@Brian Eastman@Dmitriy FomichenkoQuestion for you two; I was under the impression that a Self Directed IRA was only available to those who were working outside of a traditional W-2 engagement? 

I wonder more recently if I need to put together a pamphlet on this because I am shocked how many don't pay attention or engage in this.

I've heard that title companies would engage in the negotiation process is that accurate?

@Rafael PinhoThe main points that helped me the most concerned a second high rise mixed use project I engaged his firm to design for me in downtown Seattle.The architect with development experience was able to define issues that were problematic with the first building and proposed solutions to the second before they arose.Topics included fenestration, sub grade parking, mechanical systems, building services and a more creative unit design by creating smaller but extremely efficient use of space.This architect basically became a member of the development team and provided value over and above the services typically rendered by architects.

Really looking forward to engaging with some of you in the near future.

The sponsor owns the relationship of the investor.The group I'm working with has in house council in addition to engaging a securities attorney.

Since you're hanging out on Bigger Pockets, my guess is that you see RE investment as a big part of your future, so you should probably purchase the Nolo CA book anyway, (whether you choose to engage property management or not), it will make you a better, more informed investor/landlord.  

Listen to podcasts, read books (BP has tons of both), engage on the forums, and figure out things as you go: your goals, your favored strategies, your market, etc.