Why did you decide to retire at that point?

I optioned 15 lots .. bought 4... built 3.We sold one to a local policeman ,   one we sold to a couple from Dallas that wanted to get out of the Dallas heat and humidity... they can work from home.and the last one closes this month sold to a couple that retired after living in Portland and wants to live on the ORegon coast.

Since he is otherwise retired, lives close and owns 1/3rd, he doesnt draw a significant salary (15k/yr). 

Someone close to retirement and no time left I think paying cash makes a lot of sense.

Also, you have plenty exposure to the stock market with your retirement and pension accounts. 

Let me know if you want to compare notes.The other thing I'm doing is creating a self-directed checkbook IRA so I can invest my retirement savings in long-term hold real estate.

You may avoid the taxes if you deposit the funds in an eligible retirement plan (which includes anIRA) within "3 years and a day" of the date of the COVID-19 distribution (note: compare to a 60-day rollover).

The Raleigh area is in a great position due to the general southward migration of the US population, more people choosing to retire there, & lots of well-paying jobs being added to its economy.   

Retirement AccountsVested funds from individual retirement accounts (IRA/SEP/Keogh accounts) and tax-favored retirement savings accounts (401(k) accounts) are acceptable sources of funds for the down payment, closing costs, and reserves.

This has been about a 4 month process as they are starting to unload their assets because they are ready to retire.