So this thread finally prompted me to add an additional access point near the other end of my house. I picked up a Netgear AC 1200 Model 6150 unit. Overall it was very easy to setup and performance is great. Changing from extender to AP mode was a simple flip of a switch.
This will also allow me to address my 100meg wiring problem since I now have excellent coverage and the Netgear Extender/AP is gig connected.
Jeff