Obviously my own financial situation/financing would be a big factor, but mainly looking for some perspective in terms of real estate opportunity here.  

Here is an entirely new situation to deal with. 

I had this same situation. 

It is really hard to make money in a location with high overhead and where you cannot control your own property.As to where you should invest, it should be determined by your financial goal.

Particularly for townhomes or condos, you should also investigate the HOA’s financial status.

I would like to find a private lender that ma take rental price into situation but we do have access to $150000 from home equity.

This could be through finding ways to increase the rent on your existing properties, taking on additional work, or finding other income streams.Reducing your current debt levels can also improve your DTI ratio.Improve Your Credit Score.Look into various financial institutions, including community banks, credit unions, and online lenders, which may have different criteria or offer programs for investors.Since portfolio lenders retain their loans in their own portfolios rather than selling them on the secondary market, they are able to provide greater flexibility.

We are, conservatively, about 10 years from retirement age.Based on your situation, it seems like your best option may be to proceed with building a home on the property you already own.

I don’t know any bank that will pause/freeze your mortgage payments for a situation like yours. 

I would treat it how I would like to be treated.I have refunded in situations like these.