I don't want to burn any bridges by cutting them out but I also don't feel it's fair to simply give over a portion of my income each month for someone with no capital investment and no participation in the day-to-day operations.

I just instruct them to go to annualcreditreport.com, which is the free report mechanism that the fed made the reporting bureaus participate in a few years ago.

Is it worth participating in the bidding war since the banks of REO properties intend to reduce their listing price to draw more attention?

You should check out your particular charity on line. they should also be able to give you references from other participating landlords.

On a rare occasion, I will jump in and participate in the renovations as my time allows.

She pays no tax on income to her IRA.What everyone should remember is the "no self dealing clause" - you can't participate with your own IRA, nor can your spouse, nor can your parents or children (direct blood relitives + marriage) Therefore, you personally can't "own" a portion of the real estate along with your own IRA (or your parents ect) If you were to do that, perhaps that is where the UBIT comes into playAs far as Roth Vs.

Mike, I strongly suggest that you run this by an attorney who is familiar with Medicade rules and regs before you attempt any transfer of the property - unless of course you want to be accused of participating in medicade fraud.

The only way you can be sure they are working like they should and the hours they should is by actively participating in your rehab.

If anyone has any other recommendations about setting up the business and relationships, as well ways to pay the investors....such as straight interest vs lower rate but with profit participation, etc.

@Frankie WoodsA 401k participant loan can generally be processed form a full-time employer plan within 3 to 5 business days.