Hml should not require that in advance. instead, if building new, reconfiguring, etc, something a municipality might not go far, they are perhaps looking for now security before purchasing. which of these sounds like what you've encountered? 

No conventional lender (that I've found) will be able to fit all this criteria, because it's very unique.Occupancy: Currently rented on a short-term basis (airbnb), however, in the process of securing long term tenants.Gross rent (for 1 tiny house): $14,400 annually ($1200 monthly)NOI (for 1 tiny house): $9,600 annually ($800 monthly)Expected Gross rent (for 2 tiny houses): $26,400 annually ($2200 monthly)Expected NOI (for 2 tiny houses): $18,000 annually ($1,500 monthly)Value of portfolio financed at 8% cap rate: $225,000Loan terms sought: 70-80% LTV loan size ($157k - $180k), 20+ year termAnticipated or actual appraisal issues: This is where one of the main problems lies.

This is great in terms of paying off your HELOC but not great for actually securing the refinance loan.

As for appliances the Detroit Land Bank lists Sam's Appliances but I've never dealt with them and their website's security cert is expired.

Lenders typically prefer to offer loans when the property is cash-flowing; if the DSCR is under 1, it might still be possible to get a loan, but expect less favorable terms.Understanding these elements will help you better prepare for securing a DSCR loan, allowing you to leverage your rental properties effectively for further real estate investments. 

Do they charge the tenant an extra security deposit?

It doesn't really matter that a rental property is securing the loan, what matters is how you use the funds.

Negotiation Skills: These agents have honed their negotiation skills to ensure they can secure the best deals for their clients.

I have a good credit score, but I'm concerned that given I'm going to have very low provable income for the next 2-3 years and not be able to secure a loan especially with a low down payment.

You can also hold the security deposit for those repairs (if you've stated those terms in your lease agreement).The short of the long here is that they're in violation of the lease and you are able to take action.