My main concern is whether it's hard to meet their criteria for properties and secure funding.

The power of leverage is one of the main benefits that distinguishes RE from other investment choices, and the refi is where real wealth is made.

Many include them constantly.

They didn't really explain what the 10% fee included. 

CA's Secretary of State forms list the name and address of either a manager or member, so unless you're hiring a third party to serve as manager of your LLC, anonymity is very hard to achieve once filing publicly in CA.As to the probate part, you're right that going through a court probate is a huge hassle, including being expensive and time consuming. 

I’m mainly concerned about the rate change happening without prior notice, especially since both loans started and are closing on the same day.I’m scheduled to sign tomorrow and close on Friday.

Including the cloud brokers like REAL and EXP Realty- all the brokerages I've researched so far require to join a local MLS & NAR.

If history is any guide, it won't happen and it is in nobody's interest (including the cartels).

To make the job flow easier, but also (mainly) to protect myself if a customer changed their mind later ( which was common).

@Andres Felipe Alba Hernandez Yes, neighborhood covenants can sometimes restrict certain activities, including short-term rentals (STRs) or renting out parts of a home, even in areas without a Homeowners Association (HOA).