Real Estate in a Self-Directed IRA

A self-directed IRA may hold a variety of real estate assets, including residential, commercial, and other qualifying properties. Mountain West IRA provides the administrative and recordkeeping services needed to purchase and maintain real estate within a self-directed IRA.

Forms and Documents

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Direction of Investment | Real Estate
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Form 990-T
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Form 990-T
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Loan Payoff Confirmation
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Payment Authorization Letter
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Payment Authorization Letter | One-Time
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Payment Authorization Letter | Recurring
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Purchase Kit | Real Estate
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Purchase Kit | Real Estate - Qualified Plan
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Sell Direction Letter | Real Estate
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The Do’s and Don’ts of Real Estate in Your IRA

Blog Articles

Can You Use a Retirement Account to Buy Rental Properties

Can you use your retirement account to invest in rental property? In this guide, we explain how Self-Directed IRAs can hold real estate under IRS rules, what types of properties may qualify, and the compliance requirements investors must understand. Learn the structure, risks, and planning considerations before getting started.

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Self Directed IRAs and Real Estate Investments

Although the options are nearly unlimited when investing in real estate with a self directed IRA, it is extremely important to understand and follow the IRS guidelines to avoid hefty penalties for violations.

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Approaching RMD Age with Real Estate in Your Self-Directed IRA: Options to Consider

Understanding your distribution options is essential—especially when your IRA holds illiquid assets like property. From using rental income to meet RMDs, to taking in-kind distributions, restructuring the investment, or exploring Roth conversions, several strategies can help you stay compliant while maintaining your long-term goals. Mountain West IRA provides guidance on the administrative requirements for managing real estate in an IRA, including proper titling, valuations, and distribution processing. Our team helps ensure your Self-Directed IRA stays aligned with IRS rules and your retirement strategy. 

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Using Real Estate as Diversification in Asset Allocation

Throughout the last three decades, “financial planning” has developed from non-existent to hot button marketing for hundreds of firms. Where did all of the terminology come from that lead investors to a barrage of confusion?

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Alt Assets 101 - Why Alternative Assets

Let’s get the obvious question out of the way first. What is an alternative investment?

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7 Real Estate Options You Can Hold in a Self-Directed IRA

Many investors are surprised to learn that real estate can be held within a Self-Directed IRA. This article explores seven real estate-related investment options, including residential and commercial properties, raw land, mortgage notes, private REITs, tax lien certificates, and tenants in common (TIC) arrangements. Learn how Self-Directed IRAs work, the key IRS rules that apply to real estate investments, and the important role a custodian plays in administering these accounts. Whether you're new to alternative assets or looking to expand your retirement investment knowledge, this guide provides a valuable educational overview. 

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What Is a Non-Recourse Loan

A non-recourse loan is a key financing tool for investors using a Self-Directed IRA to purchase real estate. Unlike traditional loans, it is secured solely by the property—meaning the IRA owner is not personally liable. This structure helps maintain compliance with IRS rules, which prohibit personal guarantees within retirement accounts. While non-recourse loans allow for increased purchasing power through leverage, they also come with stricter underwriting standards, larger down payments, and potential tax considerations such as Unrelated Debt-Financed Income (UDFI). Understanding how these loans work is essential for investors looking to use debt responsibly while preserving the tax-advantaged status of their retirement funds.

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Mountain West IRA Announces Major Expansion for 2014

Mountain West IRA will be expanding our business to the states of Washington and Florida.

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Self-Directed IRAs and Real Estate

Self-directed IRAs (SDIRAs) offer an expansive range of opportunities for diversifying retirement portfolios, with real estate assets standing out as a prime choice for many. While the options are nearly limitless—encompassing everything from residential to commercial properties and even vacant land—it’s crucial for investors to stay informed and compliant with IRS regulations. Failure to do so could lead to hefty penalties, which can derail retirement plans.

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5 Must-Have Characteristics for Successful Real Estate Investing

Real estate investments have long offered a potent mix of appreciation and income, making them an attractive option for many investors. Investing in real estate through a self-directed IRA has become increasingly popular, offering unique benefits and opportunities to diversify and take greater control of your assets. Remember that while there isn't a definitive formula for success in real estate investing, many successful investors share certain key characteristics.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I personally live in a property owned by my self-directed IRA?

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Can I purchase real estate alongside my self-directed IRA?

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Can my child live in a property owned by my self-directed IRA if the roommates pay rent?

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Can my self-directed IRA obtain a loan to purchase an asset?

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Can my self-directed IRA pay a company I own for construction or property management services?

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Can my self-directed IRA purchase a property I already own?

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How does my self-directed IRA purchase real estate without it being a distribution?

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What if my self-directed IRA does not have enough cash to purchase real estate?

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What types of real estate assets can a self-directed IRA hold?

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Where can my self-directed IRA obtain financing for a real estate purchase?

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Who manages a property owned by my self-directed IRA?

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