Subject to zoning could be apartments, self storage on extra land, sell lots, etc. 

For apartments, especially larger complexes, not so much.

I get it.. for homeowners this is a no brainier for apartment dwellers this is still going to be a challenge going forward. 

I’d like to help her out with a part of it, but the full $175 seems high.

Quote from @Connor Kline: I have interest in a multi family property that is made up of loft studio apartments, all roughly 550 sqft.

Seeking Advices and suggestions on what type investment is the bestMultiple Single-Family Rentals: Diversifying into several single-family homes can spread risk and potentially increase returns.Multifamily Properties: Investing in duplexes, triplexes, or larger apartment complexes can offer higher yields and economies of scale.Specialty Properties (e.g., Event Venues): Purchasing a property like a ranch for hosting events is possible

Over 52% of last  year's evictions came from the 10 largest apartment buildings, so evictions from single family rentals, condos and townhouses are not common.

People like new, especially in the Houston market.

You pretty much have all you need in what you said above.Your apartment is currently heated by oil.

I won't get into too many details since the list would be long, but in 2021 I bought a house in Tucson for a part-time escape from Washington state winters while Airbnb'ing it the rest of the time.