For us, it saved us several  thousand and we are going to market it as additional outside entertaining area. 

The few banks that I've spoken with that will even entertain the topic, basically say that you and your wife should have separate finances to make this happen.  

Sure I'd entertain an offer to sell at $160K in 1 year.  

The husband seemed to entertain the offer, the wife did not.

Within the last 24 hour I made an offer for a 948 sf. duplex 1/1 on both sides with a two car garage and a backyard with ample room for entertainment, my dog to run around etc.

Section 8 will entertain up to 5% a year in my area.

I'd start by finding a local REI friendly lender that'll entertain your scenario, give you the time of day, and run numbers.

Plus, if your lender isn't willing to entertain a negotiation, then how would they be able to have faith in your negotiation skills with sellers?

TX and FL are my two "home" markets that I'll look to entertain the rental business side of things but I'm also exploring OH and MI more due to the fact that appreciation and there are still deals in those markets.  

Currently I'm re entering the real estate field and I am (once again) enrolled in a RE course [Real Estate has much better retirement options than being in entertainment.]