One without the other will never win long term. 

You get the home by winning the county auction.  

James S. wins.

This move is risky, but could be a win-win opportunity.

If you were going to be flipping houses and obtaining multiple short-terms notes from an investor, they might be better served with a checkbook IRA LLC or Solo 401k if they qualify, as that will minimize the custodial involvement, paperwork and fees for a more active portfolio.There are a lot of ways to create private lending transactions that are win-win, and my example above is just one option.  

I personally feel the bottom line is that if I'm open and fair with the homeowner and offer them something they benefit from compared to having their home sold it's a win win but of course that has to be done in compliance with all the laws.

I've been trying option B and been on a cold streak for a couple months now.

For me, I need a bit more info and I can give you my opinion on what I would do.Let's look at them individually and see where we can make it win-win.

Branch of a Foreign Bank or Insurance CompanyInterestDividendsCapital Gains (Income Code 9)RoyaltiesReal Property Income and Natural Resources Royalties (Income Code 13)Pensions, Annuities, Insurance Premiums, and/or Alimony (Income Code 14)Scholarships and Fellowship Grants (Income Code 15)Pay for Personal Services PerformedPay for Independent Personal Services (Income Code 16)Pay for Dependent Personal Services (Income Code 17)Pay for Teaching (Income Code 18)Pay During Studying and Training (Income Code 19)Artists and Athletes (Income Code 20)Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) and Other Trusts Distributions Subject to IRC section 1445 (Income Codes 24 and 25)Unsevered Growing Crops and Timber Distributions by a Trust Subject to IRC section 1445 (Income Code 26)Publicly Traded Partnership Distributions Subject to IRC section 1446 (Income Code 27)Gambling Winnings (Income Code 28)Notional Principal Contract Income (Income Code 32)Substitute Payment - OtherCapital Gains DistributionsOther Income (Income Code 50)

It's a win for me either way if I list it or buy it myself.It does cost about $2,000/ yr for all your dues and everything so make sure you will be using it.