So, I say buy an umbrella insurance policy, run a tight ship, don't intentionally lie or screw people over, and enjoy your 10 (+10 more for your spouse if applicable) conforming resi mortgages.

Some properties may have a legal non conforming use.

If you've had any credit events or derogatory credit history that drops your mid FICO score lower than a 640 then the cash out refinance is your best bet for getting approved and keeping a traditional / conforming low interest loan.

this is good information but for those of us that are head strong have a basic knowledge just not flly conformable yet, what do we do

Try a smaller local bank or seek out a portfolio lender that doesn't necessarily have to conform to a Freddie Mac type standard.

The public record for the property shows it as a 7 bed 4 bath property, but it is now an actual 10 bed 5 bath property.  1 bedroom is non-conforming as it was a garage converted to a bedroom in the 80's. 

I'm fine with paying for a certificate of conformance, just don't want to be forced to do ridiculous things.  

If the properties are 4 units or less, they can qualify for a Fannie Mae / Freddie Mac conforming residential loan.  

If your lender is looking for a conforming loan you have to wait 6-12 months.

The vast majority of loans are sold on the secondary market, so it will need to adhere to conforming mortgage terms.