Self-directed IRA

Q: I have received several emails pitching something called a “self-directed” IRA. It sounds like they would allow me to use my IRA to invest in things like rental property. Is this a scam or is it something I should consider?

I recently received a phone call from an individual concerned about his self-directed IRA. Several years ago, he invested his IRA in an LLC that buys and renovates aging mobile home parks.