What strategies can I adopt to safeguard my investments during challenging economic times?

@Joe Splitrock thank you, you make a lot of great points and agree that I need to do a better job setting reasonable expectations because her sensitivity to activity on the property is much greater than mine.

These newer systems are more common in areas with sensitive wetlands.  

Then you can put in place whatever safeguards that you'd feel comfortable with.

More that different lenders have different sensitivities to the highest rates they think they can sell on the secondary market. 

That was a really schrewd observation of you, and it makes sense as to why she might have a high sensitivity to debt.

An agent by law is required to do certain things (any agent, not just RE agents), the duty to communicate all material facts pertaining to the representation, the duty to safeguard the principal's interest and keep information pertaining to the principal's interests confidential and to account for all monies owed to the principal.     

With my schedule changing every two weeks it’s hard to attend a physical class or do time sensitive zoom class.

Or if they are trying to offset some taxes, then creating a balloon payment structure each year, may be of benefit to them (would need to consult a CPA first) and if they are generally concerned about how to be the creditor, if you can show them you fully understand how to safeguard their loan, would be useful.

Since you have a refinance and things are not time sensitive I would honestly tell them to pound sand and that you're changing title companies.