we are using REsimpli for our CRM and they can pull data etc. its pretty much a one stop shop for running an investment firm/renovating/wholesaling.

Using escrow company & title insurance will protect you from an unwanted surprise.

My insurance company said they wouldn’t cover the policy with the fuse.

I was wondering if anyone had any tips or tricks for this area dealing with the insanely high property tax and insurance rates?

You can - 1) establish a trust for asset protection, 2) utilize the Homestead Exemption for property protection, 3) consider tenancy by the entirety for marital property (this might just be applicable to California, my home state)4) make sure you have adequate liability insurance for additional protection, 5) think about forming a business entity to shield assets, 6) and have proper estate planning for asset distribution.Seek tax and legal advice from experts in your state.

Don't forget to add fringe benefits such as health insurance and also payroll taxes, etc. 

I own a lot more than 2 homes and all these years later still have never bothered with LLCs - I just keep really good insurance.

Home warranties are basically like insurance for the house systems and appliances.

We are finding conflicting information as it pertains to insurance and liability. 

However, there are some drawbacks to putting a rental property in a trust - first setting up a trust can be expensive and involve a lot of paperwork, the rental property may be subject to rent control and liability insurance may be more expensive for a trust.