I figure I still have some time to talk to her about it since our timeline is pretty flexible.

Only need to submit invoices for payments...The local banks are far more flexible than big box banks.What was the outcome?

You can also ask agents who have rental units that are long term but would be flexible for a month to month basis.

You can always pay it off like a 15 year, but now you have flexibility rather than be locked into the higher payment from the start.And it's not just about the money...I'd also look at how you want to spend your time. 

This mitigates risk and provides flexibility if (and when) things hit the fan.For larger MFR, one option that looks good is commercial with renovation costs rolled in (typically 20-year, sometimes with an IO period) then refi in year 3 or 4 following repositioning to a 30 year commercial (usually with a different lender).

The company I picked was not the cheapest, however they were very flexible and managed 1000+ doors when we started.

Key Bank, FLorida flexible lender, HELOCs on second homes and rental properties. 90% LTV on primary.

(if they only require 15% down on a single family home that is usually a good sign that you are working with a flexible lender) How many loans can I have with you?

Considering they are military, you are likely in a military town, and military folks are part of a supposedly tight knit group, being flexible with them can lead you to your next tenants through their reference.

Investing with a self-directed IRA provides a tremendous amount of flexibility, but also requires a knowledge of rules and tax code restrictions that do not apply in the conventional Wall St. realm.