Unless you drop below your basal for an extended period, your body won't cling to bad. I find I do ok unless I go below 1200 calories a day.

I would stay above 1500, at least for now until your closer to goal. If your hungry all the time, then by all means up it, or at least up the fat % to feel sated longer.

If you are having problems keeping calories up, you can start to suppliment with oils. Having 3 tbsp a day of flax oil or coconut oil can have multiple health benifits. Also sticking to the fatty meats such as beef, pork, and dark poultry can really up the fat and cals.