@Colin EasterbrookThe pros include the following:A way to diversify outside of the stock market.Real estate is a physical asset so it generally won't disappear like a stock.All rental income flows back to the IRA so it could be a steady way to grow your retirement account. 

Do you physically visit the property or DDo you use rental manager 

Im currently shifting from a buy and hold to flipping and trying to create a physical filing system.  

Now I am self employed and work only local so I wake up when my body tells me to (anywhere from 6:30 am - 9:00 am)  I need sleep, usually 8-9 hours to be alert, focused, and refreshed.

Even though the physical damages are manageable, I can not forget the way they mistreated the house.

If the website doesn't support it, then you actually need to go into the tax assessor's office physically and get it in person.Word of caution: oftentimes the contact information is out-dated / incorrect / missing and you'll have to skiptrace the owners.

Maybe not necessarily physical structure related (but I'll take those too) - maybe just a hiccup along the way that you didn't consider thinking about, just so I have expectations/preparations. 

a Physical Therapist who has his own practice.  

I think it's important to be very close (physical proximity) to your first deal, and I wouldn't want to be several hours away from my property (especially at first).

Buying out of state requires a ton of energy because in order to get comfortable you have to physically go to the area and walk the opportunities as people in 2% areas (Indianapolis) can potentially have less scruples and don't have a problem taking your money because your from the "RICH" west coast.