Get Started

Get Started

The concept of holding an alternative asset, such as real estate, in your IRA is similar to holding a stock, bond, or mutual fund in your IRA – the asset is tax-advantaged while inside the account. On the other hand, if you have successfully invested in real estate or other “alternative” assets outside of an IRA, you already have experience in what many consider the more difficult side of self-directed IRA investing. The concepts and practices that make a successful real estate deal can generally be adapted to use inside an IRA. There are several primary differences and important rules to be aware of, but Equity Trust leans on over 30 years of experience to help make your IRA investing a seamless process. Schedule your free consultation and follow these 6 simple steps and you could be on your way to your IRA’s first alternative investment.

1
Step One: Identify Your Investment

The first step is finding an investment for your IRA. Consider your own background and experience and think about the alternative investment opportunities you’ve read about on this site. Then, look for opportunities in your network and within your own community.

Learn More
2
Step Two: Perform Your Due Diligence

Due diligence is the process of investigating investment opportunities and gathering information to help make informed decisions.

Learn More
3
Step Three: Request Funds and Direct Your Investment

To make an investment, you must complete a Direction of Investment form which details information about the investment, such as the amount of the investment needed, where to send the funds, and if there is documentation that requires signing.

Learn More
4
Step Four: Your Custodian Processes Your Investment

Once all required documentation is received, Equity Trust processes your Direction of Investment form and sends funds, per your instructions, from your IRA to purchase the investment.

Learn More
5
Step Five: Manage Your Investment

Once your IRA owns the investment, all expenses related to the investment are paid from the IRA and all profits from the investment return – tax-advantaged – to the IRA. This step reviews the cycle of funds within the account.

Learn More
6
Step Six: Sell Your Investment

Once you’ve negotiated the sale of an investment with a buyer, you must complete a Direction of Investment form that instructs Equity Trust to remove the asset from your IRA and deposit the proceeds back to your account.

Learn More