Self-Directed IRAs, RMDs, and the Real Risks of Investing Outside Wall Street

Self-directed IRAs give investors the ability to move beyond Wall Street and invest in real assets like real estate, private notes, and alternative investments—but that control comes with important rules and risks.

In this episode, we break down what investors need to understand before using retirement funds outside traditional brokerage accounts, including how Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) work, when they should be taken, when an IRA holds illiquid assets, how valuations are handled, and why certain mistakes inside an IRA cannot be undone.

01:00 – 2026 IRA Contribution Limits Explained
02:00 – Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): What Triggers Them
03:00 – Valuing Real Estate & Alternative Assets Inside an IRA
05:15 – What Happens When Your IRA Has No Cash for an RMD
05:40 – In-Kind Distributions: Taking Assets Instead of Cash
06:10 – What Is a Checkbook IRA (IRA LLC)?
09:10 – Annual Valuations vs. RMD Valuations
12:45 – IRS Scrutiny, In-Kind Distributions & Audit Risk
16:25 – DIY IRA LLCs, Prohibited Transactions & Costly Mistakes

This conversation is for investors who want flexibility and control in their retirement strategy, while staying compliant and avoiding unnecessary taxes and penalties.

If you’re considering real estate or alternative investments inside an IRA, this episode provides practical insight to help you make informed decisions before moving forward.

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