To keep the tax-preferred status of the plan, there are rules surrounding keeping all plan activities at arm's length and avoiding any self-dealing or dealing with disqualified parties (lineal family for the most part). 

Here is what I have seen, but either way agree that managing a few units on your own, if for a set length of time is a great education and highly encouraged.  

Insurance companies use them because they know they can make 1 call and get a tenant anywhere furnished or unfurnished for any length of time.

The length of time is not the only way, but it is a significant way, to help demonstrate the intent to hold for investment purposes. 

Also, what is the they typical length of the investment these type of investors are looking for?

If i had any suggestions for the company it would be to have an accurate estimate for your prime bridge loans on a time length  from application to closing  to avoid issues and convey that to the client prior to application  as timing is very important with discounted properties!

For commercial, hourlies run from probably $75-110 for paralegals, and attorneys from $225-700 an hr depending on their level of experience and length of time with the firm, and how big the firm is.

Honestly save your self the trouble and partner with someone that is on your same wave length.

the other thing to address  is the length of the lcok period needed .....if it will be many months before the home is built -  ask any lender you talk to with regards to a long term rate lock ( if  you want to lock ). 

If your home is located in a non-residential zoning district or zoning districts where multi-family residential is allowed, you may be able to rent out your residence as a Commercial Dwelling Unit for a length of stay between seven and 30 days.