There’s a lot of talk nowadays as to what is the best means of growing your retirement portfolio. Is it stocks, bonds, mutual funds, real estate? Let’s look at not just the avenue, but also the vehicle that gets you there!

So maybe you’ve heard real estate is a great way to prepare for retirement. After all, it usually has the highest returns, and it’s also extremely easy to liquidate if need be... but how do you go about the investing part?

Have you considered a Roth IRA account? With Roth IRAs, specifically “self directed” accounts, you have the ultimate investment vehicle imaginable!

With a Roth IRA, you have an enormous number of options as opposed to a traditional account. In this current economy, isn’t that what you need? Better yet, isn’t it what you deserve? After all, it is your hard earned money!

Of course, it has always been prudent to diversify your portfolio in the attempt to stay secure while promoting a steady growth of your assets. In times like these though, it’s not just a suggestion, it’s becoming absolute necessity.

One of the biggest reasons people are turning to a Roth IRA account to continue the growth of their assets are the many advantages when dealing with real estate investment.

Again, real estate is not just about making eye-popping profits. It’s also about providing you with the most options. These options include, but are not limited to, residential properties, commercial properties, vacant and undeveloped land - all of which can be held within a Roth IRA account.

Deciding what option to go with… that’s the harder part! Fortunately, getting started is the easier one. However, when investing in real estate, you definitely have to choose an account custodian/trustee that allows all investments possible under law. Banks and brokerages usually won’t.

You may be thinking, “I don’t have the time for this stuff.” Believe me, I know where you’re coming from. You may be worried that you’ll end up having to locate the deals, look at and evaluate them, all yourself. But that’s not true at all!

There are companies out there that work with IRA trustee/custodians and will handle all of this for you - everything from locating the property, to hiring out subcontractors, to renovations. Of course, if you’re more the hands-on type, you’re allowed to do everything yourself. After all, it is SELF-directed.

Holding a property within the account for the long term can be rewarding. Just know that all expenses pertaining to that property must be allocated to/from that Roth IRA account. If you happen to come up short (cash wise), you can always make contributions. However, it cannot go beyond the pre-set yearly limits allowable by law.

Another big reason it’s one of the better Roth IRA investments, is because real estate in general is a very tangible commodity that’s easily and quickly liquidated if the need arises.

Now for my big finish: the most powerful aspect of this technique is that by using your Roth IRA account for your real estate investing, you can avoid the costly capital gains taxes that are associated with profits. Earnings go back into the account to be re-invested, NEVER to be taxed.

If you’re not very educated on the subject, don’t worry. There are many resources out there that can help you. Begin with these steps to secure your retirement and build a solid foundation for your financial future.

Happy investing!

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Ray Stockwell is a real estate investor who enjoys making money by investing in projects that help people and their communities, all without capital gains taxes.

Visit his web site at http://www.Socially ResponsibleProfits.com