The tax cost is generally far less than the boost in return the IRA is receiving via leverage. 

Boosting your credit score is the no-brainer investment.

The #1 reason for this is that Airbnb boosts new listings in the first few months.

For the most part its here to stay but its going to vary dramatically by location.

There are great tax breaks for real estate investors that can dramatically increase your returns over the long run, especially the 1031 Exchange. 

I average 78% in my market, but it's also a HIGHLY seasonal in AZ, rates vary dramatically. 

Right now it sounds like you don't need all that much extra cash from the investment, but in 15-30 years the properties will be paid off and it will be a perfect way to boost your income for retirement while also putting some of your cash into something other than stock.

Budget, come up with a plan - I can help walk you through that, to save and boost your FICO if necessary, and then strategize to get the property.

Properly make the bed (think Hilton hotel room--not Motel 6).Lastly, yes, the holidays cut down dramatically on the number of people out looking and serious about moving. 

Our response rate would drop dramatically if we put that on a yellow letter.