My question is, should I expect additional hoops to jump through when refinancing the first rental, even though we'll own it free and clear?

Or is there a deeper mindset that has no desire for the additional "baggage" of owning a home? 

To do so, we are exploring some direct mailing opportunities.

If the difference in rents is so big, you might explore master leases to see if you can turn it into a seller finance down the road.An assignment is a much cleaner approach where you assign the whole package collect your fee (from the buyer)and get out of the arrangement.

...for a $45 additional fee no doubt :)

Thanks for your help, happy to answer any additional questions.

Or can additional names be included on the deed (joint tenancy) without negatively affecting the banks loan decision?

***i'm not tax strategist or CPA***with that in mind i think that is a good idea to talk with your tax professional, speaking for myself my tax professional wasn't very helpful along the lines of exploring creative ways to utilize SDIRA''s if you need a custodian that deals with this topic and  can counsel you on any options that you could utilize this site could be an option to check out: www.trustetc.com.............they may be able to help you in achieving your goals 

All additions are still in "roughed in" state, i.e studs, electrical runs, and plumbing runs, but no outlets or valves.  

I noticed several additional people beside herself, 2 kids, mother and sister have moved in.