Almost everyone is retreating to a space they are very comfortable in. 

When you say to them, "Hey, YOU asked me to make a promise to you in this contract, and I need to take certain measures to keep that promise YOU asked me to make," it makes them think they're in the driver's seat. 

If potential tenants can see themselves comfortable in your property they are more likely to want to rent it.Details - Potential tenants want to see details.

So it makes sense.But, if I wasn't comfortable holding it for a couple years, I wouldn't be buying it.

I recently moved, and brokerage has taken a back seat for a couple years, so my connections for info are pretty slim...thanks!

Don't get me wrong, I personally would feel relatively comfortable in the cash out scenario that you described.

It depends on your locality and what you are comfortable with. 

I aim to get into multi families to learn and have some security, but I love the idea of long term tenants and appreciation, and will probably feel more comfortable with that as my time in the market increases.

I read about someone attempting to get some sort of promissory note from a lender post covid-19 outbreak to refi but not sure If I'd feel comfortable given the ever changing circumstances  

Family Offices were coming around to get more comfortable with lending.