But it really frustrates me that banks get away with this stuff because they are able to throw their weight around.

Why would this have any weight into his chance of insuring the property? 

At the end of the day I guess I should have posted a post about expenses rising faster than rents in my area.  

But regs carry the weight of law by various federal Acts. 

With each property purchased you'll accumulating acquisition funds faster and faster.In this long-term safe strategy, keeping your expenses low while you're income is increasing is important!

Thanks for your time and wisdom-   David: River City sounds amazing:)I've been trapped in this "pulling yourself up by your own bootstraps" kinda thing ever since I can remember.....it'd sure be nice to be able to leverage some equity and get the ball rolling a bit faster:)Making a note to stop into one of their branches right away.....Highview maybe?

Has the monthly payment to landlord become faster as stated it would a few months ago?

As a renter or consumer, I would assume a bank draft to be faster and more definite than the mail and not consider it the same.  

Any suggestions on getting loans to the closing table faster?

In my primary profession I have come to that point where I have enough knowledge that growth continuing faster through experience.