As stated by others, this was intentionally induced and numerous monetary measures and mechanisms have been put in place to mitigate and minimize the damages.I have no doubt that even after the pandemic has receded/subsided that there will be numerous more policies and mechanisms put in place to mitigate further. 

I think if you can be conservative with keeping cash in excess of down payments/due diligence costs, minimize risk through astute due diligence, and hope for the best/plan for the worst there is never a bad time to start investing.

Sorry for the delayed response. 

Simple way to think of it is with the additional principle, would you rather invest it and make "x" (x being whatever return you can generate through RE, stock..etc) or use it to minimize the 3-4% interest rate that's locked.

The credit impact is likely to be minimal and if I recall once you are over the excellent credit threshold the rate doesn't really change anymore, I want to say that the excellent credit threshold is in the low to mid 700s but don't quote me on that.

I assumed if this was done I shouldn't have any repairs that are not covered by a warranty or at least very minimal in cost.

If the schedule slips by one week a make up schedule now must be submitted.The contractor must list all subcontractors he will contract out to and you introduce you and you go over with them can they meet the schedule if not they are out.If this contractor is not performing as agreed send out a delay notice to put it on record in your files.Penalties should be included in the contract for liquidated damages and your contract should say you have the sole right to supplement the work regardless of who's name the permit is under and hopefully the permit is in your name.

I have a clause for liquidated damages ($50 each day delay goes out of his pay), but this is still causing me to lose time. 

Fannie rules for the delayed financing exception limit me to the initial $30k out during the initial 6 months.

Even if its a few tiles missing or something minimal.