Thinking more about neighbor's access to Wi-Fi. Is there a way to allow certain MAC addresses to log on to the network without needing a password? That way I could limit access to just their Netflix streaming device and their two smart phones. Their guests wouldn't see the SSID (I'll stop broadcasting it), and with the password changed anyway they couldn't log on.

Does this seem like an adequate compromise? Would it work?

Yes

I would not over complicate - add a $40 Wifi extender. Worked a treat for me with the exact same setup.

I tried that, but wasn't keen on the results. Apparently the extenders halve your bandwidth because they have to first receive a packet and then send it on - two actions.

I'm fine with a bit more complication and price if it results in solid Wi-Fi performance across my property.

Interesting. I have not noticed a hit but then again, I will do some speed tests tonight to verify that assertion (not that I doubt your results - I've read the same thing - just wanna see for myself, easy test, now I'm curious). Right after doing this, I was able to finally run my new Ipad pro downstairs (previously terrible reception, now full signal) to play the entire season of "man in the high castle" in HD, and it never once hiccuped or reduced speed, so now I'm curious ! Maybe I have excellent bandwitdh that can deal with being halved ? The computers are hardwired anyway, so wifi is just for ipads, kindles, Nest, IP cameras, did not notice any performance drop... Thanks for the reply, I'll do some testing !

Works fine for me. I the one I use can be connected via ethernet to the exting WAP or just plugged into the wall for power and is strictly wireless. Netflix works either way, thats my general test of satisfactory home performance.

If your internet connection is 10Mbit and extender halves your WiFi bandwidth from 100Mbit to 50Mbit for your TV then of course, you will be fine.

But if you have faster connection and multiple users streaming stuff concurrently, and also accessing local storage (NAS for example) then extender will get bogged down in a hurry.

An 801.11n/ac router that also contains 4x1Gbit switch costs roughly the same as a extender, but offers much more performance and functionality (and can, of course, act as a extender as well)