Many landlords now use online platforms that integrate electronic signature capabilities to handle this legally and efficiently.

As the tree is cleared and we get access to the property, what should be done to be most efficient? 

Some items considering:- Chichen Itza- Swimming in cenote Ik Kil- Valladolid Centro- Las Coloradas- Izamal- Akumal beach- Shopping in Playa del Carmen- Tulum Ruins- Cenote Dos Ojos- Xplor- Parque Nacional de los Arrecifes (cozumel island)Have not yet looked into transportation or lodging for period outside the conference dates.  

Private money lenders can also be more flexible with terms, allowing you to structure deals in ways that better match your cash flow needs or renovation timelines.Re-evaluating your financing strategy periodically ensures that you’re optimizing not only for the best rates but also for terms that align with your investment goals.

Most peoples biggest "out" is if they are unable to get approved for the loan than they may be able to backout without penalty depending on the loan period written in the contract.Like everyone else said, it will really depend on the contract wording.

@Ben Magee, In my state (PA) a tenant may break a lease WITH NO PENALTY if a unit is uninhabitable for an extended period and the landlord has been unable/unwilling to correct it.

There was a brief period a couple of years ago where demand was out-pacing supply by a large margin, but that has calmed down.

How easy is it to find banks/lenders that offer cash-out refinancing with short or no seasoning periods?

Once you get your process in place it becomes more manageable and can run fairly efficiently depending on your process. 

After the seasoning period, buy another fourplex and move into it while renting out your old apartment.