Take Control of Your Retirement with Alternative Investments
A self-directed IRA gives you the flexibility to invest retirement funds beyond traditional stocks and mutual funds. At Heritage IRA, we support a wide range of alternative investments giving you control while we handle custody, reporting, and administration.
INVESTMENT TYPES
Diverse Alternative Investment Opportunities
Below are common investment types our clients choose to build diversified retirement portfolios. This represents the most popular options, but is not an exhaustive list of what's possible with a self-directed IRA.
Real Estate
Physical properties and real estate investments
Private Equity
Private companies and partnership interests
Digital Assets
Cryptocurrency and blockchain investments
Other Alternatives
Precious metals, notes, and more
Real Estate Investments in Your IRA
Self-directed IRAs are commonly used to invest in real estate and real-estate-related assets, offering opportunities for portfolio diversification and potential appreciation. From residential rentals to commercial properties, your retirement account can hold various real estate investments.
Examples include:
- Residential rental properties
- Commercial real estate
- Raw land
- Real estate syndications
- Private real estate funds
- Tax liens and notes
Important Compliance Considerations
The IRA must be the purchaser and owner of the property. All income and expenses must flow through the IRA account. Personal use and self-dealing are strictly prohibited under IRS regulations. All transactions must be conducted at arm's length without conflicts of interest.
We act as the provider while you identify the opportunity, and we help facilitate the investment from your IRA. Our team works with you and your professionals to assist with proper documentation, title work, and signing for closing.
Private Equity & Private Business Investments
Private equity investments allow your IRA to invest in privately held companies and funds not available on public exchanges. These opportunities can provide exposure to high-growth businesses and emerging sectors that institutional investors target.
Common Private Equity Investments
- Private company stock
- LLC or partnership interests
- Startup and venture capital investments
- Private equity funds
- Sponsor-led deals and syndications
Key Considerations
- These investments are often illiquid with long holding periods
- Valuations are not market-priced daily
- Documentation and compliance review are required
- Disqualified persons may not personally benefit from the investment
Private equity investments are best suited for investors who understand the business model, industry dynamics, and timeline involved. Due diligence is essential.
DIGITAL ASSETS
Cryptocurrency & Digital Asset Investments
A self-directed IRA can be used to invest in certain digital assets, including cryptocurrency, when structured properly with approved custodial arrangements. This emerging asset class offers exposure to blockchain technology and digital currencies within your retirement portfolio.
Examples of eligible digital assets:
- Bitcoin and other supported cryptocurrencies
- Institutional custody or qualified storage solutions
- IRA-owned investment accounts or structures
- Digital asset funds and trusts
Custody Requirements
Assets must be held through approved custodial or trust arrangements that meet regulatory standards.
Platform Compatibility
Trading platforms must support IRA ownership structures. Not all exchanges accommodate retirement accounts.
Risk Considerations
Volatility and evolving regulatory frameworks apply. Understand the unique characteristics of digital assets.
We coordinate custody and account setup to ensure compliance and proper reporting. Our team works with qualified digital asset providers to safeguard your retirement investments.
Additional Alternative Investment Options
In addition to the major categories above, self-directed IRAs are often used for a wide range of other alternative assets. These investments provide further diversification opportunities and can complement traditional and alternative holdings in your retirement portfolio.
Private Lending & Notes
Your IRA can act as a private lender, earning interest on promissory notes and secured debt instruments. Real estate notes, business loans, and peer-to-peer lending are common applications.
Precious Metals
Physical gold, silver, platinum, and palladium can be held in your IRA through approved depositories. These tangible assets provide a hedge against economic uncertainty and inflation.
Energy & Natural Resources
Oil and gas interests, mineral rights, and energy partnerships offer exposure to the natural resources sector. These investments can generate ongoing income and potential appreciation.
Other Non-Traditional Assets
Many other alternative investments may be eligible, from farmland and timberland to crowdfunding. Contact us to discuss specific opportunities.
Understanding Our Role as Your Administrator
At Heritage IRA, we serve a specific and important function in your self-directed retirement investing journey. It's essential to understand what we do, and what we don't do, so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
What We Do
Custodial Services
Serve as the qualified provider and administrator for your self-directed IRA, ensuring regulatory compliance.
Asset Management
Hold and safeguard assets on behalf of your IRA with proper documentation and record-keeping systems.
Transaction Processing
Process investments, distributions, and all related documentation accurately and efficiently.
Reporting & Compliance
Perform required IRS reporting, maintain detailed records, and ensure proper custody of all assets.
What We Don't Do
Investment Recommendations
We do not recommend, endorse, or promote specific investments or investment opportunities.
Advisory Services
We do not provide legal, tax, or investment advice. Consult your professional advisors for guidance.
Investment Evaluation
We do not evaluate the quality, performance, or suitability of any investment for your situation.
Due Diligence
You are responsible for conducting your own research and due diligence on investment opportunities.
You remain fully in control of all investment decisions. We provide the infrastructure and compliance framework, while you direct where your retirement funds are invested.
TRUSTED CUSTODIAN
Why Investors Choose Heritage IRA
When you're investing retirement funds in alternative assets, you need a provider who understands the complexities and provides reliable service. Here's what sets Heritage IRA apart in the self-directed retirement space.
Experienced Team
Our knowledgeable staff understands alternative investments and guides you through complex transactions with confidence.
Streamlined Process
We've refined our systems to make investing efficient, with clear procedures and responsive support at every step.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees or surprises. Our fee structure is straightforward, so you know exactly what to expect.
Compliance Focused
We maintain strict adherence to IRS regulations and industry best practices, protecting your retirement assets.
Flexible Investment Options
Support for a wide range of alternative assets beyond traditional securities.
Responsive Support
Real people who answer your questions and help resolve issues quickly.
Ready to Take Control of Your Retirement?
Whether you're exploring alternative investments for the first time or you're an experienced investor ready to diversify your retirement portfolio, Heritage IRA is here to support your journey. We provide the custodial infrastructure you need while you maintain full control over your investment decisions.
Explore Your Options
Learn how a self-directed IRA can support your unique investment strategy and retirement objectives.
Already Have an Investment?
We'll help confirm eligibility and walk you through the next steps to fund your opportunity.
Ready to Get Started?
Open an account or speak with our knowledgeable team today to begin your self-directed IRA journey.
Heritage IRA serves as a qualified provider for self-directed retirement accounts. We do not provide investment, legal, or tax advice. Consult with your professional advisors before making investment decisions.