Update on getting a home loan within 6 months of retiring--finally closed on house after 3 months and 4 rejections (3 conventional and 1 VA). Winning lender used "second home" criteria so that my current military income was included in my debit ratio since the home was in another state from where I am currently stationed. I ended up with a 3.25% 5/1 ARM--not great but OK considering the crazy lending rules in force today.
Lots of lessons learned if anyone wants info.