This is my 1st post and I am so incredibly thankful that a forum like this exists and for any information to help guide me through this tough decision is so immensely appreciated! 

One option is to pay down any existing debts (credit cards, car loans, etc.) to free up income capacity.

You want to know the total demand and the existing competition.  

NOTE:  there may be some tax on interest or principal on the payments--seek professional advice.Also, stress there will be no inspections or other contingencies--sell the 'peace of mind' side of the equation.You have known each other for 12 years and you established you are a great payer. 

Perhaps they would make more money if STR was an option, however if that's not permitted in their location, no STR demand exists, or no STR PM is willing to take on their property, they may not have that option.

I know very little about legal precedent but I'd expect the major meter manufactures (selling into the utility space) to be well incentived to challenge these items best they can, and they have money.Here are the issues, and the reasons that the difference between an air forced system and a boiler/hydronic system are not meaningful for this discussion (ie efficacy issues of sub metering exist for either when method of measurement is measuring heat at point of delivery):In either case, the blower (or pump for a boiler) is the method of 'moving' either air (central air) or water/glycol or equivalent (boiler etc). 

This policy will provide additional coverage above what your existing policy covers.

near 0% and 0% options with DPA's exist (down payment assistance) programs.

Does a $150j beach front actually exist?

They exist for a reason.