Where I live the requirements are essentially 2 exits, ny state energy code for insulation (R21 or better) and it must be able to stay above 68 in the winter.

Agreed with @Theresa HarrisGet a contractor recommendation (or multiple) from your friend and reach out to GCs yourself to have a couple of quotes and ideas for the renovation project.During the walkthroughs, you can pick the contractor's brain regarding pricing on different material grades, efficient layout ideas, etc.

I would rather have Remax manage my property and concentrate my energy on finding my next deal.

It would be even better if you can get something that you can easily house-hack like a SFH w/ an efficiency attached to help out with the mortgage.

I'm always looking for ways to be more efficient as a landlord.

What is your plan/goal - 1 year to 50 years down the road (yep be that deliberate if you can to be that efficient in all things at all times). 

Bottom line for us was a tax-efficient exit plan takes time. 

Efficient negotiations secured the property for $200,000 on favorable terms.

You will get efficiencies of scale with chemicals and service calls.

The question is do you want to spend the time energy and money to find something that you think can do better?