Any suggestions for other considerations to account for in our search are much appreciated.

You do not buy properties for tax consideration, period.

@Kase KnochenhauerThere are posts almost every day in the forums regarding Solo 401k plans.Please see the following regarding Solo 401k vs Self-directed IRA, Considerations re Investing in Real Estate & Consideratiosn re Choosing a Solo 401k provider:Solo 401k vs Self-directed IRA:A Solo 401k has several advantages as compared to a Self-Directed IRA including the following which specifically apply to your situation:Unlike a Self-directed IRA, you can have the account for the Solo 401k at a bank or brokerage that does not charge maintenance fees and where you will have checkbook control.Unlike a Self-directed IRA, if you use leverage (which must be non-recourse financing in either case) to acquire real estate with your Solo 401k the income will not be subject to Unrelated Debt Finance Income taxGeneral Considerations Re Investing Retirement Funds in Real Estate:1.

The homes are near Boulder, Co, so the possible rise in home value and/or rent rates is very appealing. 

We don't want to carry the mortgage any longer and it's just too much house for us so we're considering renting vs selling.The area is growing and we think housing prices will continue to rise in the area. 

Not the best for your bottom line.The other consideration is whether you think your borrower is going to destroy the property. 

We have a very active investor community, rising rents and(compared to most of the country) fairly affordable housing.  

@Emerson Hazell We don't have "trouble" with them, but we take them into consideration when evaluating a deal in Springfield, versus say Enfield (which is 15 minutes south and across the MA/CT border for those who don't know). 

High rise in downtown Houston has a drone that will take pizza delivery from bottom floor to the roof top :) I guess that saves the 5 minutes of elevator trip?

Also, take into consideration if you come in and try to bump up the rent several hundred dollars on existing tenants they may up and leave.