I then switched jobs to a property management company as an asset manager for about 3,000 units where I learned A TON!

I'm skeptical of multiple double digit growth years.

For tax purposes, a partnership interest is treated as an asset separate and apart from the partner's indirect interest in the partnership's assets. 

Once you can figure out which asset type you're in the position to take on, you can make this decision. 

I would encourage you to view them as your best customer, because when you're handed the keys over to them, you also entrust them with your biggest asset investment!!

So, if the IRA were to invest in real estate, there would be a solid asset held as the principal of the account, and that asset can spin off positive cash flow. 

When you apply for financing, the lender is going to dive into your finances and still require you be able to cover ~6 months of costs (held in a liquid asset), and may not count the rent generated from the other units. 

I would recommend looking at some successful multiunit investors and what they have to say about entering the game in this asset class.

If your credit is not established or not good, go with hard money lending - they do asset based lending.

You can leverage off the expertise of the TK company to get a great cash-flowing asset.