Options for Individual Self-Directed Investors

When you have the power to choose how you invest your money, amazing things can happen. Everyday investors share how they're making a difference with their Equity Trust account.

Featured

Couple Dedicated to “Doing Good While Doing Well” with Real Estate

Cynthia and Kevin of Illinois use their self-directed Roth IRAs to help others find a path to homeownership while building a legacy for their family and community.

A Family Affair: Building Retirement Wealth and Providing Affordable Housing

New York investor Michelle and her family grew their self-directed IRAs while investing in affordable housing in the community.

Contractor Uses IRA to Tackle Growing Housing Need

Tony of North Carolina uses his self-directed IRA to build senior-friendly housing and secure his own retirement.

Creating a Lasting Legacy by Investing in the Community

Lamberto found a way to benefit his family well into the future, while helping with housing and economic development in his area now.

Finding Community in Real Estate Note Investing

Tim of North Carolina finds hands-off note investing to be a refreshing change from corporate America.

Helping Small Businesses, Inspiring a Future Generation of Investors

Real estate investors Lorraine and Richard of Florida kept businesses afloat and showed kindness to renters who fell on hard times during the recession – while also inspiring their children to get involved in investing.

Real Estate IRA Income Opens Doors to Meaningful Community Causes

Wayne and his wife can participate in more causes that matter to them because of the real estate income generated in Wayne’s IRA.

Real Estate Investing Contributes to Economic Development

Jan of Missouri helps foster a sense of community and boost economic development through her high-quality renovations and by abiding by The Golden Rule.

Note Investing Helps Community and Future Generations Flourish

Gary’s self-directed investments are fueling local real estate and his family’s financial future. His only regret: not starting sooner.

Self-Directed Investing Fuels Couple’s Global Outreach

Brad and his wife’s missionary work wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t for an investing strategy that enables him to build his wealth faster than by traditional means.

Lifting Neighborhoods While Recovering Stock Market Losses

After losing almost half his life savings, Mark of Ohio fought back to regain his financial independence, providing jobs and improving neighborhoods at the same time.

Supporting the American Dream

Kimberly uses her self-directed IRA to help a single mom achieve homeownership.

Using a Roth IRA to House Homeless Veterans and Refugees

John of Indianapolis has provided shelter for dozens of veterans, and more recently, Afghan refugees, through the properties held in his retirement account.

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© 2026 Equity Trust®. All rights reserved.

Equity Trust Company is a directed custodian and does not provide tax, legal or investment advice. Any information communicated by Equity Trust Company is for educational purposes only, and should not be construed as tax, legal or investment advice. Whenever making an investment decision, please consult with your tax attorney or financial professional. Equity Institutional services institutional clients of Equity Trust Company. Brokerage Services Available Through ETC Brokerage Services, Member SIPC, and FINRA. *Founded in 1974 | Self-Directed IRA Custodian since 1983. The predecessor business to Equity Trust Company was established in 1974 and the IRS approved as a custodian in 1983. **Assets under custody and administration as of 03/31/2026.

Terms of Use|Privacy Policy|Site Map

© 2026 Equity Trust®. All rights reserved.

Equity Trust Company is a directed custodian and does not provide tax, legal or investment advice. Any information communicated by Equity Trust Company is for educational purposes only, and should not be construed as tax, legal or investment advice. Whenever making an investment decision, please consult with your tax attorney or financial professional. Equity Institutional services institutional clients of Equity Trust Company. Brokerage Services Available Through ETC Brokerage Services, Member SIPC, and FINRA. *Founded in 1974 | Self-Directed IRA Custodian since 1983. The predecessor business to Equity Trust Company was established in 1974 and the IRS approved as a custodian in 1983. **Assets under custody and administration as of 03/31/2026.