Pretty much the only way to get funds into a retirement account is via earned income.Of course, growing it inside an account is a different issue.With those additional properties you say you are helping your kids buy, are you putting your name on Title? 

Wondering if you have any additional feedback now that it’s been about 5-6 months.

Additionally, I have family I often visit in Birmingham and along the I-85 corridor (Greenville, Charlotte, and RDU area).

In addition, check out the chamber of commerce https://greaterlouisvillepartnership.com/ where you can find the top 10 employers for different industries such as healthcare, tech, manufacturing and logistics.

If your budget will allow for a purchase of $400k or more, a single-family house within walking distance of the beach will likely yield higher return and a larger runway for appreciation.  4-bedroom channel homes in the popular Cherry Grove section of North Myrtle Beach go for around $600-$800k. 

You're likely walking into a property with zero or negative equity.

Additionally, you will still be responsible for paying the cost of the house and any associated renovation expenses, which may be a significant financial burden. it is important to carefully weigh the benefits and drawbacks before making a decision.

While estimates suggest higher returns (10-20%) than traditional rentals, additional costs and complexities come into play.

Salvaging it means putting in a bunch more money either by recasting or refinancing with an additional 50k invested or putting the extra cash every month.

If he says 100% then walk away and find a new partner.