Step 1: Self Directed Real Estate IRA: The first step is to establish an Unlimited IRA with a registered self-directed custodian who will allow the IRA to participate in non-traditional investments.
Step 2: Rollovers : Once your new Self Directed Real Estate IRA has been established the facilitator will request, monitor and direct the transfers from your previous IRA holder(s) to the new self-directed account. This process usually takes 2 to 3 weeks to complete and relies primarily upon your previous IRA custodian's ability to make the transfers in a timely manner.
Step 3: Limited Liability Company (LLC): An important part of the process is to establish a Limited Liability Company (LLC) for your Self Directed IRA. This serves as the investing platform for the retirement plan and will allow true self-direction & diversification not seen in normal IRA plans. The facilitator will customize this entity to conform to all IRS rules & regulations. It is vital that you work with a qualified facilitator to structure the LLC correctly.
Step 4: Funding: After your newly established self-directed IRA has received the transfer(s) of funds from your previous retirement plans and the LLC has been established, it is time to direct the initial capitalization of the LLC. The facilitator will direct your new custodian to invest your IRA in the LLC. Once the transaction has taken place, your self-directed IRA is the owner of the LLC, holding most, if not all of the cash in the LLC checking account.
Step 5: Investing: Your IRA, indirectly through the LLC, is now ready to begin investing in Real Estate (or almost any other investment you may desire). You now have Total Checkbook Control of your IRA, and can purchase Real Estate for your IRA simply by writing a check.
Some of this sounds complicated, but it's fairly easy with the right professional assistance. We have done this personally and it really works. IRA Real Estate Investing makes perfect sense for many investors, especially today when there are so many great deals out there.