Option A would allow me to keep it as a long term rental .

A good lender should be able to piece together a strategy with you, whether that's cross collateralizing or not, underwrite each option with conservative numbers. 

What other options would be good?  

Plenty of options to downsize and still live comfortably. 

Also send me some details on your service offerings, I am potentially looking for a new tax accountant.

Too bad that BiggerPockets does not offer an LOL reaction. 

But there’s another option that’s often overlooked: mortgage recasting.

An assistant can do most everything that you need done and they work directly for you rather than a property management company that has several clients and you’re just one of them.Also, again, depending on the location of your properties, have you considered doing a lease with the option to buy?  

Gas or electric would be a much better option, safety wise, from a house fire standpoint, CO danger, or danger to children or pets from the open flames. 

I don't see it as an issue but many still do, at least in my small town where the majority of renters are elderly people looking for low maintenance housing options.