I came in and finished putting her house back together and she's continued calling for little odd jobs here and there over the years.

I worked on a deal similar to that and it was extremely difficult to get to the finish line but we were able to close the properties simultaneously.

I am geeking out a bit now as I literally just finished listening to your vlog "Should I Allow Dogs at My Vacation Rental?" 

Now we’re right at the finish line with about two months of work left, and lender is only giving one month to complete the project.

Then you would need to view properties that are similar to yours in year build, sq footage, finishes, etc. 

I actually helped a recent college grad that worked with me doing real estate deals just buy a 4 BR home, he finished a kitchen in the basement and one more bedroom, which added lots more rental income.

Having a finished property that generates positive cash flow was the safer bet to hold onto. 

I am currently based in Germany (dad is active duty) I have also recently finished my masters program.

The benefit tho, I can now list the property with a dry basment with new footing drains and sealed exterior walls in the event the new owners decide to finish it.

Then they will release the funds based on what is finished.7) Sell the home and payoff the loan / rent the home out and refinance the borrowed amount.Hope this helps give a simple time-line.