I'm self-employed in my existing (non-real estate) business with no employees, and so I will be investigating solo 401k. 

I have one of my properties free and clear and this would be a great way to harness some of that equity.  

The speaker at REIA meeting was IRA company employee.

I am actually an employee, which is rare as a Landman.  

This is a larger policy that will cover common area and other people's living spaces if the contractor screws up.These places will give you an estimate, require some kind of down payment, then have payment due when the job is complete.Paying something "all cash" for a job is a pretty dead giveaway the guy isn't a contractor.Make sure to report that payment on taxes in a W-9A bathroom and leak repair should be done by a licensed plumber.The HOA could be somewhat on the hook since their maintenance guy recommended this person.I can see someone assuming a person recommended by someone representing the HOA to be properly licensed to do the work he is recommended for.I don't know what kind of business this guy you hired is running, but the 'sub' would probably be treated as an employee of the person and his insurance may help handle repairs from the water damage.

We believe the fraud was most likely either intentional or mistakes made by the employees (previous President) who were asked to leave the bank as our loan was approaching maturity.

If you're self-employed and don't have any full-time employees you would qualify for a Solo K, within which you could invest in RE in a tax-advantaged manner.

Testing is generally well south of $1,000, and I consider it a workplace safety issue for our employees... not to mention it is technically a legal requirement.

Here's me taking a picture down at Oakland City Hall, dealing with GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEES (can you think of anything more horrific?) 

As long as you do not grow to the point of having employees you do not need a entity.Insurance is your primary protection whether you do or don't have a LLC.