Ep. 151 | Self-Directed IRAs and Hidden Strategies

In this episode of the Teaching Tax Flow podcast, hosts Chris Picciurro, CPA, and John Tripolsky welcome back Scott Maurer, VP at Advanta IRA, to take a deep dive into the world of self-directed IRAs.

Many investors don’t realize that retirement funds can be used for much more than just stocks and mutual funds. Scott breaks down how self-directed IRAs open the door to real estate, private lending, startups, precious metals, and even cryptocurrency — all while maintaining tax advantages.

The conversation explores how these accounts work, what you can and can’t invest in, compliance requirements, and practical strategies for combining traditional IRAs with self-directed ones. Whether you’re an investor seeking greater control or a tax pro advising clients, this episode uncovers strategies that can maximize retirement wealth.

What You’ll Learn:

• What self-directed IRAs are — and what they are not

• How to diversify retirement funds into real estate, private companies, and more

• The rules for disqualified persons and prohibited transactions

• The difference between custodial and checkbook IRAs

• How to plan ahead for RMDs with illiquid assets

• Practical compliance requirements and why custodians matter

Key Insights:

Self-directed IRAs give investors control and flexibility, but with that freedom comes responsibility. From avoiding prohibited transactions to balancing liquidity for RMDs, Scott explains why working with a knowledgeable custodian is essential for both compliance and strategy.

Notable Quotes:

• “Most people don’t know it’s possible to invest in real estate or startups with their IRA — because their brokerage won’t tell them.” – Scott Maurer

• “Your IRA cannot transact with or benefit a disqualified person. That’s critical to know.” – Scott Maurer

• “Control is the number one benefit of a self-directed IRA.” – John Tripolsky

• “Ideas are cheap — implementation and compliance are what make the difference.” – Chris Picciurro

Resources:

• Advanta IRA

• Teaching Tax Flow Hub

• Join the Community: DefeatingTaxes.com

• Sunsets & Dinks Pickleball Apparel – teachingtaxflow.com/pickleball (Use code TTF15)

• (00:00) - Exploring Self-Directed IRAs and Pickleball Enthusiasm
  


• (01:59) - Exploring Self-Directed IRAs with Scott Maurer of Advanta IRA
  


• (06:13) - Exploring Self-Directed IRAs for Diverse Investment Opportunities
  


• (14:23) - Exploring Investment Opportunities in Self-Directed Retirement Accounts
  


• (19:03) - Navigating IRA Rules and Disqualified Persons in Investments
  


• (20:43) - Impact of Technology on Self-Directed Investments and Opportunities
  


• (24:26) - Navigating Self-Directed IRAs and Custodial Requirements
  


• (30:49) - Exploring Tax Strategies and Upcoming Content on YouTube