Or I’m wondering if the co-signer seems reliable if we should be flexible on the dog part and require a non-refundable pet deposit and pet rent.

And by exchanging from one smaller into one larger you save some exchange fees for multiple purchases, ease the pressure of finding two properties in the time frame, and have the flexibility at will to refi.

The other, and most promising, seemed like they were very flexible with what we need. 

I am coming up with a flexible price of 115k to start before looking at the inside. 

Be flexible...the market sure is!

Try local banks for this kind of flexibility.

As an owner-only business retirement plan, the Solo 401(k) has higher contribution limits, allowing you to build your savings on the front end as well as providing investment flexibility. 

commercial lending has much more flexibility and can loan on a single family home. the question is WILL they.

My goal is to replace current traditional keylock with something more flexible.

You will lose control and flexibility with blanket loans or lines.