We manage around 400 units in the Chicago area, and we get almost nothing back once a tenant is out.

Any tips or advice before I dive into this process?

Congratulations on setting up your Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA)!

This can help tremendously as it teaches you the ins and outs at a local level.Hope that helps! 

With a last name like "Kitchens", you were bound to be a chef or a builder ;-) Where do you do most of your projects?

.✅ Ensure your mortgage allows renting—some loans have restrictions.If your financial cushion can handle these factors, you’re in a great position to rent out your home successfully!

For electronic payments, use multi-user approval thresholds in your banking portal.Segregate duties: Builder submits AIA docs → Your team verifies lien waivers/notarization → Separate approver releases funds.Structural Safeguards:Hold accounts under an LLC (not personally) with clear operating agreements.Use project-specific bank accounts – no commingling.Your $1k threshold is too low – focus controls on major disbursements.

Buy a new primary home and rent out your existing home.

Check out this chart: FICO Score Pct of Population Default Probability 800 or more 13.00% 1.00% 750-799 27.00% 1.00% 700-749 18.00% 4.40% 650-699 15.00% 8.90% 600-649 12.00% 15.80% 550-599 8.00% 22.50% 500-549 5.00% 28.40% Less than 499 2.00% 41.00% Source: Fair Isaac CompanyMake sure you understand the Class of properties you are looking at and the corresponding results to expect.

At least 3 and then go out and meet them.