The pre-qualification letter only says they've quickly looked at your application and think they can do the loan - not good enough in a competitive market.Some listing agents are requiring the buyer be pre-approved by the agent's lender of choice. 

Otherwise, you really have no choice but to drop the price even more. 

Out-of-state investing is a top choice.

I think the online lenders or a loan broker are your best choices.

It is right on the muni bus line, and there is no need for a car when you can easily walk a block or two to so many amenities.For some people, co-housing is a lifestyle choice.

I respect architects but they often don't know and/or don't care about the cost of doing things one way vs. another or how a simple choice can have an outsized impact on your budget.

Cash value life insurance can serve a purpose but it is not an apples to apples comparison and if you are going to have to make a choice based on your fact pattern you would go with the retirement plan.  

Brevard County further south may be a better choice but not without local knowledge. 

I’d love to hear what drives your choice!

Traditionally if you want to hedge against inflation, RE is a great choice.