Our goals are to just be financially independent and hopefully make our work life more flexible to spend time with family.

It could be anything from the unit not being the correct tonage, the property using flexible ducting that limits air flow, partially covered vents, is the property not insulated correctly, or even a fan issue. 

Here's an example of what's in the works: https://www.notarypublicstamps.com/members/news/1147And here's a good summary of current law:https://www.hklaw.com/en/insights/publications/2020/04/remote-online-notarization-more-states-including-new-jerseyAt the height of the crisis we had underwriters actually telling us to find a Virginia RON to handle remote signings as they had more flexibility.

(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?

I have done some research online on both and understand HELOC offers more flexibility, but the interest rate is usually higher than cash-out refinance.

I will probably keep paying my old payment to stick to a quicker payoff, but I love the flexibility that a lower minimum payment will give me.Debating another refinance to take cash back and build an ADU at another of my rentals. 

I’ve read a lot of forum posts about sob stories given about why they have a lower credit score or asking if they can be flexible.

Please note that the account into which the funds are deposited must be the same type of account from which the funds were first withdrawn (e.g. withdrawal of pre-tax funds from a 401k could be deposited in a pre-tax IRA but not a Roth IRA - "like to like").Loans:Payments on a 401k loan taken under the CARES Act must be paid back starting in 2021 over a 5 year term.Here are the details regarding the loans:NEW LOANS:The CARES Act which was enacted to provide relief to individuals impacted by COVID-19 allows for increased 401k loans and more flexibility for repayment of these loans.Specifically, you must be an individual who meets one of the following conditions to demonstrate that you have been impacted by the crisis (and it will be your responsibility to retain documents in your files that demonstrates that you are a qualified individual):Individual who is diagnosed with COVID-19, with a CDC-approved test;Individual whose spouse or dependent is diagnosed with COVID-19, with a CDC-approved test; ORIndividual who experiences adverse financial consequences as a result of being quarantined, furloughed, laid off, having work hours reduced, being unable to work due to lack of child care due to COVID-19, closing or reducing hours of a business owned or operated by the individual due to COVID-19; or other factors as determined by the Treasury Secretary.On or before September 23, 2020, such individuals take a 401k participant loan subject to the following terms:Maximum Amount of the Loan: 100% of their 401k balance not to exceed $100,000.

I would also interview smaller, local boutique brokerage that might offer more flexibility than some of the big boys!

It gives you some flexibility and time to learn where you want to end up.