Gyroscopic Investing

regards Checkbook IRA / Self-directed IRA

I'm thinking about setting this up (most likely checkbook ira)...looking for comments from those who have done so...primarily regards your experience in setting up the same...such as were there unexpected costs? Misrepresentation of what can be done? Who you used (to set up as well as who is custodian) and would you use them again?

I have a self-directed IRA holding real estate and notes with Entrust.  I thought about signing up for their checkbook IRA a few years back when some renovations were necessary for one of the holdings, but decided against it--monthly fees, etc. on top of the regular Entrust fees.  It was a lot easier and cheaper to have all the work done by one contractor, and have Entrust write out (on behalf of the IRA) checks payable to that contractor.

i thought i'd revisit this post...looking for direction.