We are hoping to retire to this home in 2-10 years and figured we'd buy why rates are cheap and let someone else pay the mortgage for awhile.

And buying power will change.rates go down inventory for sure will go up.. those that have been squatting on the current mortgages will now be more inclined to go ahead and sell .. and take on a new mortgage,, I know personally my wife wanted to move but I was not going to retire a 3 % mortgage and take on a 7%.

I'm also interested in investing funds / retiring early.   

yes folks that live in the mountains are usually retired from silicon valley

Can you take the small profit which may qualify as "tax free" and invest in properties on the mainland, or in a retirement account.

Retired Air Force (20 years) and currently a Program Mananger for Boeing Intelligence & Analysis in Maryland. 

We all hope to retire some day, and we're better off working toward that goal together.If anyone wants to connect, grab coffee, discuss JVs, etc - feel free to reach out. 

Plus with an HOA you will likely have retired board members who have nothing better to do but make sure everyone is complying with their rules.

I have never heard of anyone who retired early by putting their money in CDs- which may be the worst investment there is.

It is impossible not to increase your bottom line with thousands of "Baby Boomers" going into retirement in communities nationwide who will be needing service enriched housing but,  still wanting to avoid institutional settings.Converting some houses into home like personal care can be tricky.