If you setup a self-directed IRA or Solo 401k and invest that plan in real estate, that is the plan investing in those assets.  

I was going to bootstrap every dime into my real estate business, and I was going to put myself out of the picture as something of a liability in the operation.2013-2015: It took 2 years, but I completed all projects and towards the end I continued expanding the portfolio some more to 12 bldgs and 15 doors.I am often told that my projects often reflect myself in a very clear way: I had never been comfortable in assets or projects I wouldn't be willing to "eat my own cooking".

But never really financially had the means to take the risk.

If we want to look at return on capital, the rate is much lower, because at the end of 4 years we'll have an asset worth ~$35,000 (if sold in a package to an investor) returning ~$4300 annually, but that is still a 12% return on capital.

I am looking to diversify my assets a little bit after I purchase this next property.

I'm eager to succeed in this as I want real estate to be my avenue to financial freedom!

A lot of people in this market swear that it's still going to get higher, while a few financial "experts" seem to think that "winter is coming" (a correction).Besides the regular investment strategies (which I'm starting to implement soon), I really have the bug to put that FHA to work and get started (this would be my 2nd property, first is already a rental in Austin), I just think I'm missing something and I'd like your opinions. 

But, being committed to my family and financial freedom fueled my “Why”.

The best book I have found on this is What Every Real Estate Investor Needs To Know About Cash Flow ...and 36 Other Key Financial Measures– Frank Gallinelli

My partner and I both have good credit and good jobs at major financial services firms but limited capital.