Lately, many 2-4 unit clients understandably ask me why prices are still going up with rate increases. I have sold 40 million seen a lot of 2-4's in Chicago and the answer is simple, supply has more impact in this nic...

You might be able to get better on the rate, but it's kind of a fence to play between this lender that says they'll do it and finding another source that might shave some cost for you.  

It might be insulating the pipes near that trouble area, sealing drafts from the outside with caulk and spray foam, or even using heat tape to keep pipes from freezing.

@Brian Plajer, when it comes to commercial financing, lenders require that the sponsor(s) have a net worth equal to the loan amount, and liquidity of at least 10% of the loan amount. 

but I don't really want to risk going through a tough escrow with a novice buyer trying to shave me down with contingencies and unreasonable demands related to inspections... especially in a softening buyer's market.

. - Caveat to all this is that, you still have to have a filtering process; [i.e. test them on various tasks required for the job, have instructional videos so once hired, they can just watch the video(s), have bonus structure to incentivize, etc]

If the propertie shave not been sold yet it is just like any other deal.

Not sure if your location(s) have different laws. 

A screening tool will help shave some time, but do not skimp on screening. 

Had to add the ducting to the flat roof and re-foam, which required architectural change request from HOA.