I love how much architectural character these houses have.

If he doesn't qualify because of lack of two years income how is she going to qualify with even less income history.What you are trying to do is change the character of money from cash to income thereby getting around the fact that lenders only look at income and mostly ignore savings.One thing I can tell you is that the higher the ltv the more scrutiny you are going to get. 

I would recommend some decorations and unique pieces from the area to give the space a little more character.

.* Not checking the tenant/buyer's credit to make sure they are not a poor-character and have the ability to pay.

I love old buildings with lots of character like this one.  

I'll want to some past work the contractor has done, get references (and call those references), look up any reviews they might have, stalk them on facebook, literally anything you can find that shows you a tell about their character. 

Tenant shall not keep on the Premises any item of a dangerous, flammable, or explosive character that might unreasonably increase the danger of fire or explosion on the Premises or that might be considered hazardous or extra hazardous by any responsible insurance company.20.

At least I do, but more than that it’s a relationship building process and character matters!!

But the choice is ultimately yours I think whatever you decide to do even if others disagree you should make your own choices in life that build your character more than being someone who can’t make decisions because their too worried about what other people think about it.

Two character traits that cannot be hidden.