Involving an extra step like that will likely incur extra cost in closing, title and lender fees

 - Cashflow is ~2K/month and leverage is ~60% (equity being 40% of current value)Accumulation goals:In the next 2 years, our plan is to buy lots and have duplexes built by a builder we have existing relationship with that takes care of the whole process without too much of our involvement. - Buy 6 additional duplexes.

San Diego is very tenant-friendly so make sure you know what’s involved.

This is a very passive way of getting involved in real estate that provides fixed returns that are usually higher than the stock market.Those are a few ways to get involved in real estate in a more passive role. 

We’ve decided there is too much risk involved with where our house is located and given the above questions. 

Are there any friendly strategies you would try first to ask them to leave before getting the lawyer involved?

If they want to micro-manage their investments and be involved in every decision or know every detail, I'm not the right guy for them.If your owners demand to know all the details, it demonstrates a lack of trust which means they are micro-managers or you haven't proven yourself yet.

If something goes wrong, you'll wear the black eye, not the lender. 

My long-term strategy involves using the "stacking" method for the first 5 years, acquiring multiple duplexes/fourplexes to maximize my return on investment.

This means they could require you to repay the entire loan balance.People involved in the loan business will often say this situation never happens.