Self-Directed IRAs give you the freedom to not only choose your own investments, but to choose from private assets such as real estate, private companies, promissory notes and so many other alternatives to traditional publicly traded investments. Choosing your own investments is a strategic way to use your knowledge and expertise to your advantage, while growing the profits free of tax. We’ve all heard the advice to have a diverse portfolio, but for most Americans this means having a mix of stocks or mutual funds. Alternative investments like real estate could further diversify your portfolio and help you rest easy knowing your nest egg is protected.