But the tech isnt ready, custody isnt ready really, secondary markets arent ready, and i think this all needs to come from institutional down.

Make sure to check company reviews and educate yourself on the difference between checkbook IRA and Custodial SDIRA. 

@Waylon GatesThere are many reasons the Solo 401k is the preferred structure.Contributions limits are roughly 10x higher, there is no custodial requirement for the 401k, you can take participant loans, you don't need the additional expense and administration of an LLC to have checkbook control, there is a built in-Roth component, a spouse can participate, there are additional tax benefits, there is generally greater privacy, and the plans are often quicker to setup and cost less money over time especially compared to most IRA LLCs.

The question is if the previous owner had a contract but now is in federal custody is that contract valid.

They are doing the same relatively minimal amount of work regardless of how much capital the LLC holds.A good self-directed plan facilitator or attorney will have one or more preferred custodians they work with, as well as tighter integration between the legal and custodial processes.

@Mark SpritzWhile a Solo 401k may or may not be a better structure for you based on your situation, the additional benefits (beyond contribution limits and loans) include the following:-No custodial requirement-No need for LLC cost and admin to have checkbook control-Built in Roth-Spousal participation-UDFI exemptionsThe cost comparison depends on what providers you are looking at for each.

It is nice if you can work with someone local, but that is not always the best option.Rather than geography, i recommend you evaluate providers based on:Plan types offered as being suitable for your goals; custodial processing services, checkbook IRA LLC or checkbook Solo 401(k)Expertise, time in business, etc.Accessibility of support both during and following plan setupFeesCustomer ratings/recommendations

And what would you do with the car should he default on his loan while it was in your custody?

Hello Liwen,In addition to custodial self-directed IRA and Checkbook IRA you may qualify for a truly self-directed Solo 401k plan, which does not require a custodian and you don't need an LLC to have the checkbook control.

Here are some reasons why: Compared to an IRA, Solo 401k contributions limits are roughly ten times higher.There is no custodial requirement for the 401k.You don't need the additional expense and administration of an LLC to have checkbook control.There is a built in-Roth component whereas IRAs are either traditional or Roth, not both.A spouse can also participate in the same Solo 401k plan.The Solo 401k has additional tax benefits over an IRA when investing into real estate using leverage.The penalties for prohibited transactions are less severe, though it's best not to utilize this benefit :)