Finally.
Found a cute place, more in my budget, submitted my app... waiting to hear on approval.
I subtly suggested a three month separation to my AH and to my surprise, he agreed. However, he said only three months and then I must come back to "reunited". I just agreed and will keep on trucking.
I have a connection to a family law attorney who agreed to meet with me and waive his initial consult fee.
I feel like things are falling into place and I am cautiously getting excited, while feeling a little fearful and nervous at the same time. But when I do that, I walk myself through the process. When done in baby steps and I break it down, its not that scary afterall.