In the recent update of the ADA (which has nothing to do with housing), dogs, trained to mitigate the disability of the handler are the only recognized service animals, with the rare exception of similarly trained miniature horses. https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htmUnder the ADA, ESAs are not  service animals, and are not permitted in public areas.The Fair Housing Act has a broader definition of "assistance" animal.

Receiving the Lead Certification is typically a major hurdle as most buildings were built in he early 1900's.I would argue that a building is significantly more valuable if you have a Lead Cert based on the fact that it opens you up to a broader tenant base. 

So in my opinion, the broader the search the better a picture it gives on our value. 

I don't know of a single investor out there that wants to pay full price (aside from folks that buy turn-key).My preference is to have the ability to sell the home to a much broader market - both individuals and investors when it's time.

A self-directed IRA is simply a means of having broader investment options and more control, but is still a tax-sheltered retirement plan with the same age restrictions.  

A self-directed version is simply a plan with a different business model that may be invested into a broader array of asset classes. 

Derek:Being a somewhat less litigious society {for the moment}, I find our insurance coverage here at home (both "landlord" and tenant) to be broader, yet more affordable, than coverage on your side of the 49th.

@Tracy SimmonsYou absolutely may not do that.A self-directed IRA is simply a means to diversify the IRA into a broader array of assets. 

Unfortunately, the money-starved State of California takes a much broader view of doing business in California, which means that many LLCs formed outside California are unknowingly doing business in California and are therefor subject to the $800 minimum tax, the gross receipts tax, filing Form 568 and paying California income tax. 

If so, consider having a broader discussion with whatever department passed judgement and frame your business in the broader context of RE investment vs.