(You have other options, like bringing an inspector to your walkthrough and getting it done ahead of time.)

@Don KonipolExactly, i wonder how many people bid in Maryland expecting 12-18% on their money only to reliaze they are only making 3% based on their bids. 

While it did increase the value a little bit, it wasn't much (based on the appraisal I got done).

One person booked at the normal rate instead of what we quoted and the other somehow had a pet fee attached which we still don’t understand since we do not have that as an option.  

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Based on the conversation my realtor had with the seller's agent, the family selling the home is humanitarian in nature and would like to "help a family."

I personally wouldn't entertain the gift option as I think its an unnecessary step and it can take significantly longer. 

You will then have a few options with that rent money....you can put it into principal or you can start saving it to purchase yet another property.

Is an SDIRA my only option if I want to use the funds for investing in real estate?

Wall Street often doesn't highlight these options because they make money from the fees on traditional investments, but with a Self-Directed IRA or Self-Directed 401(k), people can take control of your retirement savings and invest directly into real assets if they wish.Here’s how it works:1.