Additionally, my schedule will need to be more flexible due to her travel and work schedule.  

Their rates are competitive and they are more flexible than most non-local banks.

My understanding is that an IRA offers a bit more flexibility in regards to premature withdrawals, which could be beneficial if I ever want to "self-direct" the funds into my personal real estate ventures. 

Do you think that these larger firms will offer me the flexibility to work around that?

If they want me or any other prospective buyer to move forward ----- go to step #1 first - get a contract of sale tentatively accepted first - all that other stuff will come later - So if a buyer does not have proof of funds - but does have a deposit (subject to financing) are you suggesting you turn down and ignore a suspect - who may become a prospect and perhaps a buyer away.That's my opinion - agents who act like this will never make the income that more flexible agents earn.

We want the flexibility to lock annually and have recently started to purchase hedges to cap these rates should interest rates go completely off the rails.  

Hi @Marc Frage , Anything is possible:) Really comes down to the hours and flexibility of the job and how often you plan to complete a deal.

Lots of flexibility in LLCs.

You must have some flexible hours.

If that's the route you decide, I would advise going to a smaller broker that may be more flexible given your intentions.