Best way to zone heat a 2000 sq ft home

[Mark Shelstad]

Many HVAC professionals really push installing a second furnace in larger gut rehabs that have ducting or other issues in the field. The two other methods I am aware of are installing a motorized main damper to direct flow to the area calling for it and hydronic boilers driving several remote air handlers. These could be instant on boilers that could also replace a water heater.  Yet no one seems interested in exploring those alternatives that would seem to less work or equipment, thus lower cost. Am I way off base or has anyone had experience doing what I describe. Thanks in advance.