---
title: How to Find a Realtor Who Understands Self-Directed IRA Investors
description: Real estate is the main alternative investment among self-directed IRA investors. Learn how to find a real estate realtor with this investment opportunity.
---

[Self-Directed IRA Blog | Investment and Retirement News from Entrust ](https://www.theentrustgroup.com/blog)

# [How to Find a Realtor Who Understands Self-Directed IRA Investors](https://www.theentrustgroup.com/blog/how-to-find-a-realtor-who-understands-self-directed-ira-investors)

 Written by [The Entrust Group](https://www.theentrustgroup.com/blog/author/the-entrust-group) | Sep 18, 2015

So, you’re thinking of purchasing an investment property with your self-directed IRA? Congrats! Before you start considering [real estate IRA properties](https://www.theentrustgroup.com/alternative-investments/real-estate/)<https://www.theentrustgroup.com/investments/real-estate-ira>, see if you are able to answer the first question that everyone will be asking you; “Who’s your agent?” 

Whether you are purchasing or selling, your Realtor® is a valuable asset that will be with you throughout the real estate transaction. Choosing the right person to help with your investment is a process in and of itself.

**Who is a Realtor®?**

Contrary to popular belief, a Realtor® is different than a standard real estate agent. A Realtor® must be a member of [The National Association of Realtors®](https://www.realtor.org/) and adhere to their comprehensive Code of Ethics.

In addition to registering with the association, a Realtor® must have completed a series of educational courses and passed a state exam. States also have requirements for continuing education, usually every two years, for agents to maintain their license.

Realtors® are often more knowledgeable about the industry than the average agent. Make sure your Realtor® is currently licensed and in good standing to ensure the highest level of service.

**What Does a Realtor® Do?**

Your Realtor’s® goal is to make the purchase process as smooth as possible. S/he will provide numerous resources to locate a Real Estate IRA investment property, and may even have access to unadvertised listings. A Realtor® familiar with self-directed IRA investing can also offer insight into the available investing strategies.[**  
**](https://theentrustgroup.com/learning-center/articles/1465/3-popular-real-estate-ira-investing-strategies)

Your Realtor® will help in the negotiating process and make sure that the purchase agreement includes an appropriate timeline for you to have inspections and complete your [due diligence](https://www.theentrustgroup.com/self-directed-ira-due-diligence-report-evaluation-lp)<https://www.theentrustgroup.com/self-directed-ira-investor-report>. This is another great time to have a knowledgeable agent by your side. S/he can help you find qualified professionals to investigate possible defects or liabilities with the property.

**Choosing a Realtor®**

When choosing a Realtor® to help with your self-directed IRA investment, you don’t have to settle with the first one you meet; interview a few. You should feel comfortable with your Realtor® and his/her level of expertise. You want a sidekick with you to help guide you through the intricacies of purchasing Real Estate IRA property.

It’s important to understand that your relationship with your Realtor® should be consistent, pleasant, and long-term. This person may be with you all the way to retirement. Consider the interviews as dates. Don’t go steady until you’re ready.

**What to Ask**

Prepare a list of questions to ask three or four different Realtors® from different agencies, and if you need to continue the search, do so.

Here are just a few important questions to ask your potential agent:

- What areas do you specialize in?
- Do you understand how investment properties work within the self-directed IRA arena?
- Do you work with a title company that has knowledge of self-directed IRA transactions?
- Do you have other self-directed IRA professionals in your network? Attorneys? Accountants? Administrators?
- What recent Real Estate IRA deals have you closed?  
- How do you stay current with self-directed investment education and industry changes?

**Get Started Today**

A great place to start your search for a Realtor® is through friends and family. A referral from a trusted source adds an extra layer of credibility to that person who is helping you with a major retirement investment. Ask other self-directed IRA investors who they have worked with, who offered great service, and who to avoid.

If you want to learn more about finding Realtors® in your area, try visiting [www.realtor.org](https://www.realtor.org/) or your state’s department of real estate.  If you would like to establish a Real Estate IRA, [please get in touch with us today](https://www.theentrustgroup.com/self-directed-ira-services-decision-lp). 

[View full post](https://www.theentrustgroup.com/blog/how-to-find-a-realtor-who-understands-self-directed-ira-investors)

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