Self-directed investing is an optimal way to start building your retirement. With so many alternative assets to choose from, you can build a diverse portfolio to help save for your golden years.

As you start investing, you may not have much accumulated to take advantage of opportunities like real estate. However, it is possible to finance your SDIRA investment with a non-recourse loan. If you are interested in financing your self-directed IRA investments using a non-recourse loan, here are some things you should know.

Recourse and Non-Recourse Loans

If you are planning to take out a loan using your SDIRA, there are two different options: recourse and non-recourse loans. The main difference between them is that one is lender friendly, while the other will benefit the borrower. The type of loan is determined by what happens should the borrower default on their loan.

Regardless of which loan you decide to use, in the case of a loan default, anything you put up as collateral will go to the lender. The difference occurs with the remainder owed. If your collateral doesn’t cover the cost of the loan, depending on the type and circumstances, you may have to pay it back.

Recourse loans are lender friendly. Lenders can go after the borrower’s assets or garnish their wages if their collateral doesn’t cover the costs.

Non-recourse loans don’t allow lenders to pursue repayment beyond the collateral. Even if the full value of the loan isn’t covered, the lender must take the loss. These loans usually come with higher interest rates and can only be obtained if you have excellent credit.

This prevents against frequent loss for any lender. In the case of a default, you may be protected with a non-recourse loan; however, your credit score will suffer a big hit and the mark will go on record.

Non-Recourse Loans with Your SDIRA

If you are planning to use a non-recourse loan to help you purchase assets for your self-directed IRA, there are some things you should consider. Which assets are you planning to invest in? How is the market trending? How large does the loan need to be?

The goal of a self-directed IRA is to invest in assets that will build a profit for your retirement fund. If you want to invest in a costly asset, such as real estate, be sure to perform your due diligence when selecting the property. Should you default, the lender will be able to seize and sell your property. Additionally, your SDIRA will be subject to additional fees.

UBTI, UDFI, and UBTI

When using a non-recourse loan to fund an IRA investment, your account may be subject to the following: Unrelated Business Taxable Income, Unrelated Debt-Financed Income, and Unrelated Business Income Tax. UBTI occurs when you use a non-recourse loan for an investment. A percentage of the profits you do gain from your investment will be subject to the tax.

This occurs with any income you bring in or if sell the property. UDFI occurs when an IRA gets a loan to increase buying power. Of course, any of these taxes will be paid with your SDIRA and not your personal account. The goal of a self-directed fund is to build your savings. Be careful not to spend more than you are making.

Personal Liability

When taking out a non-recourse loan, it should be noted that there are cases when a borrower is not protected if they default. In any instances of fraud, wrongful acts, or misconduct, the borrower will need to pay back the loan in full.

Also, if your property is in poor condition, or if you aren’t doing your part to turn a profit, then you may be forced to pay the loan without protection as well. These are coined “bad boy guarantees,” and they are put in place to protect lenders against any wrongful doings.

By keeping up the property and making an active attempt to promote your property, you can avoid any mishaps.

Performing Due Diligence

A non-recourse loan can help you secure assets for your self-directed IRA, but it should be a temporary fix. Be sure to do your research and select your assets wisely to avoid any possible default. The saying goes, “you have to spend money to make money.”

While this may be true, consult a financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Start planning for your retirement today and decide if a non-recourse loan is right for you by contacting a Horizon Trust investment expert today.