But, as a whole/portfolio, I was doing fine / better (because of the refi to lower rates) and it was cheaper since I only had to get 2 loans instead of 3.So, it sounds like you are doing something similar. 

He said there is another, cheaper option where I basically fill in a survey.

I’ve exhausted the obvious competition and wondering if there are any out there who’ve come up with a creative solution or found some cheaper carriers?

The minimal research I’ve done seems to point to building being cheaper than buying in my area.Does anyone have experience building these and could you share what to look out for, cost/sqft to build, etc Thanks! 

And then they come back when the cheaper alternative ends up costing them in ways they didn't see.

Typically it cheaper to buy a property with one already built.

Many business is also moving to the "non-quality" neighborhood as money is flowing to the cheaper place. 

It will still be expensive (especially if your heater is gas), but may be cheaper than updating all the gas lines buried in the slab.

Looks great, tenants are happy, much cheaper than new cabinets.

Traditionally, co-ops are more anti-landlord when compared to condos - that's why they're generally cheaper than condos.However - each co-op building is different.