Lump Sum Pension Rollover - Solo 401K

Hello,

I'm hoping I can get some advise and direction. I have a pension in a cash balance plan and I need to access some of those funds. I am not old enough to access them without it being considered an early withdrawal. My goals are to get some of the money for living expenses. (I know this is not a financially smart move, but it a result of being laid off for a few years and now working part time at a reduced pay). Aside from that, I would like the rest of the money to be available for some future RE investing. Am I better off rolling over to an IRA or starting a solo 401K to be best positioned for accessing the money for investments? I would also like to get professional advice, but I am wary that not all financial professionals understand how to be creative (within the law, of course). Is there someone on BP that has a lot of knowledge about this type of thing? It is all a bit overwhelming to think about and try to understand how to protect as much money as I can in llight of our situation.

The lump sum is just over $100K and I am almost 49.

Thanks,

Brandy