Tyler local, so sparked my interest whenever I see anyone post about the area.Given that your duplex is fully paid off and generating a steady cash flow of $1400 per month, it's understandable that you're having second thoughts about selling it.

Reaching out to local agents?

Nevertheless I am local now and I have that real estate desire (which never went away).

Have your notified your insurance agent/company that you are no longer living in the property and that it's under renovation?

Maintenance at at PM company or one of the big hedge owners like AH4R, leasing at apartment complex will teach you a lot about applications, fraud, leases, collections, evictions. 

Next to impossible without a property management company or a ton of experience in rehabs.

The local governments and utility companies will address all public space clean up's. 

Focus on smaller single-family homes, condos with low HOA fees, or multi-family properties in these regions, and build a reliable local team of agents, property managers, and other professionals to ensure a smooth investing experience.

VA company?

Not sure if Hawaii did the same thing in the lahina fire I know when I was there right after the fire ( Honolulu) I read in the local paper how the locals were getting offers and were offended..