I was referred to Access this last June when I procured a new primary residence.

. + Constraints on procuring new homes.

Alex, if I were to get a HELOC or a cash out refi against an existing property that I own to procure these  emergency funds, would that count against my debt to income ratio?

Depending on where your home is they should handle everything from setting up showings and procuring you a tenant (through relationships with listing sites and signage), tenant screening, pet screening (if applicable), handling vendors for repairs and maintenance, utility set up, property inspections, collection of rent and disbursement of income to owner, etc.

Due to the higher costs and my current financial position attempting to acquire an FHA for my first property/investment, I wasn't able to procure something in that area.

I'm sure you're also familiar with the difficulties that many contractors and investors are facing in procuring certain building materials. 

When I am able to procure good numbers on a LTR I will purchase additional at that time. 

I was wondering how everyone shops for: mortgage rates, home insurance, property managers, title policies & fees, negotiate repair costs, etc.Does anyone use software to either manage properties they already own, to procure new investments, or to shop around for the same services every deal requires (see above).

You need to find a contractor who is able to procure materials and is familiar with the permitting process in JC. 

If it enables you to get another property faster then put down as little as possible.