They are a bit undersized but perfectly suitable for 1 bedroom apartments and the slight increase in costs is far less than the costs associated with venting the units properly.

Looking my insurance policy it mentions that I can opt for settlement under Actual Cash Value vs Replacement Cost. 

Get replacement cost hazard insurance along with an umbrella policy of at least $1M, probably double in your area.

I completely agree with @Ashish Acharya's points about the cost-effectiveness of a HELOC and the potential credit implications if it’s secured by your primary residence.

Can try to reposition to Class B, but neighborhood may impede these efforts.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, but 15-20% should be used to also cover tenant nonpayment, eviction costs & damages.Tenant Pool: majority will have FICO scores of 560-620 (approaching 22% probability of default), many blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 2 years.

Even when we manage to reach a working voicemail,owners often assume we are just another "we buy land" serviceoffering far below market value.Given thesechallenges, we are eager to learn the most effective strategies for locatingpotential sellers and establishing a professional, trustworthy connection thatencourages serious consideration of our offers.Telephone/voicemail is informal, hence casual, hence “we aren’t putting much effort into this.”

I'm hopeful this results more so in DOGE finding more efficient and effective means of outsorucing government functions rather than blankety reducing the positions.

Are there other, more cost-effective alternatives to gain similar support and knowledge?

We’re considering whether to do mid-grade updates and rent it soon if we can find a good next property though acquisition and ongoing costs are a problem.

The ability to effectively self manage would depend on the scale you are trying to buy.