Hi Kyle,There are "in service" rules, as well as repair/capitalization regulations that impact this. 

Apparently remediation is going to cost around $2,000 with and if I want to prevent it in the future, a $100 / month servicing contract for bedbugs. 

Please don't advertise your services here.

We have a number of single family houses as rentals and are both self employed as service workers (acupuncturist and chef).  

@Paul Duncan There are many companies (~ 50) that these up, but there are broad differences between them with regard to pricing and service.

Since the lender, and almost all lenders with insure their DSCR, or Debt Service Cover Ratio is met. 

If you're new debt service was $613/month, operating expenses of 49% would result in you breaking even.

The economics on the units will go down given higher debt service, but can pull significant equity and still be north of 1.25 DSCR so this feels like a prudent move.Would love some thoughts on risks/reward on pulling equity in general but more specifically on if I can use for personal?

It is imperative to use a tenant screening service. 

One of the requirements for a multi is that every living unit must have independent utility services or at a minimum 1. legal provisions ensure and protect access to utilities for repairs, even if passing through other living spaces, 2. easements or covenants protect water connections, and the VA approves of a maintenance agreement; 3. there are separate service shut-offs for each unit.