The call has gone out dozens of times for anyone on BP to tell a story about how having an LLC saved them.

Do you have savings and reserves to hold properties?

I'd see if the employer would let me receive part or all of the bonus in 2025 for a number of reasons:- More time to pursue and execute tax-saving strategies- (Possibly) more time to hold on to the $$$ before taxes are due (2026 vs 2025)- Chance that, post-election, there is a possibility that there could be tax changes effective 2025 that could possibly help your situation. 

You should consider investing in RE outside your retirement account as well since there are different tax benefits available.  

The difference in interest rates was saving me over $500 a month, and that’s the amount on cash flowing.

You would build equity in your own property and could save an extra $2,000 a month.

How hard is it for a person with high credit score but no income, retired to get a loan?

I won't ever close on another OOS property without walking it first but that involves paying for lots of flights and hotel/rental car costs if flying out there to make an offers but the $1500 to $3000 would be worth the cost to me to save on future headaches. 

Its because I can look at the situation and say that I'm having these kinds of bad situations LESS than I plan/save for!

So another solution is to save up for another deal with your cashflow + savings, and pull money out when/if the interest rate gets lower?