Was you employer matching any of your contributions?   

You sell for $300k, and your $45k profit is taxed as ordinary business income, plus self-employment tax.As you can see, it is the worst possible result for you, which is why the IRS would go there. :)I can see room for some creative tax planning here, but it would not fit in a short online post.

The larger employers during the Great Recession did not really scale back much.

If you're self-employed, the Solo 401k will likely be the better fit for you.Here are few Solo 401k benefits:Compared to an IRA, Solo 401k contributions limits are roughly ten times higher.There is no custodial requirement for the 401k.You can take participant loans from the plan.You don't need the additional expense and administration of an LLC to have checkbook control.There is a built in-Roth component whereas IRAs are either traditional or Roth, not both.A spouse can also participate in the same Solo 401k plan.The Solo 401k has additional tax benefits over an IRA when investing into real estate using leverage.If you're not self-employed or if you have a business with employees, the self-directed IRA will be your main option.

Often employed by professional tenants to mislead mom and pop landlords.For me it is a obvious red flag when screening.

What is your level of education and your current and previous modes of employment?

A large employer can announce layoffs that impact demand which pushes prices lower.

Thanks to BP, my son and I decided to install Allure flooring, new faucets, and other cosmetic updates.

Maybe look to get employment related to RE. 

Tempe has ASU, downtown has a lot of culture and cool historic homes, Chandler is expanding employment n the tech sector ... feel free to shoot me a PM and we can discuss specifics!