I'm not sure if you're working with a financial advisor but if you're retired, receiving 1099R income, maybe social security, plus income from other sources you definitely want to speak with an advisor.

Its possible that there is just some miscommunication with the lender and with the property preservation company they are using where they keep securing the property.

I’m happy to assist you and your wife find a place and securing financing.

Through efficient negotiations, we secured the property for $162,000 on favorable terms.

I'll make a long story as short as possible:> House built in 2008, first owners used husbands VA loan to secure (220k loan), stopped paying HOA and bank shortly thereafter (current payoff 500k+). 

Efficient negotiations secured the property for $154,000 on favorable terms.

Through efficient negotiations, we secured the property for $155,000 on favorable terms.

Efficient negotiations secured the property for $120,000 on favorable terms.

Even retirees get raises to their Social Security and usually pensions as well. 

That article references California.2nd, I believe it's a misinterpretation of the new California security deposit law which limits security deposits to 1 months rent.