No question about it -- real estate prices are at bargain levels.  Many individuals seeking to recoup their stock market losses, or who are considering a career change, are seriously considering real estate as an investment opportunity.  However, despite the fact that rates are at historically low levels, lenders are still reluctant to loan money, and with the overall drop in appraised values, it is harder than ever to get an equity line of credit.  Even those with great credit scores find that lenders are reluctant to loan money for some of the more challenging types of investment opportunities, such as bulk REO sales, foreclosures, rehabs, and flips.  This is where you might consider using your retirement plan -- your 401(k) or IRA - as an alternate source of funds. First, you need to find a qualified IRA custodian who will allow you to invest in real estate, and not just "traditional" investments such as stocks, bonds or mutual funds.  A truly "self-directed" individual retirement account  ("SDIRA") custodian will allow you to "self-direct" your retirement funds into "alternative" assets, such as real estate, notes and deeds of trust, and business opportunities.  This isn't new - it has been available to investors...

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