I haven't filed a claim all these years but insurance is for the what-if and to be used for the high-ticker items, but chances of damages exceeding the 5% is low.  

Given that I utilized that $200K to buy over 18 units, the cashflow I received from those units far exceeded the interest on the HELOC.

The loss of priceless art, jewelry, autos, memorabilia and watches could often match or exceed the property values.

It is fair to express your disappointment that they exceeded the cost target you gave them. 

Tom, Based on what you've provided, if the property was held over one year, you'd be subject to the long term capital gains rates and any depreciation that you took on the property in the past would have to be "recaptured" (Added to your income) at the short term tax rates (but it will not exceed 25%). 

Certainty in this industry is merely an illusory facade - costs and timelines often exceed expectations by double.

Inflation can skyrocket, but that does not mean house prices will exceed inflation.

If it’s not written down, when you get to the end of the year, you won’t be able to determine if your year exceeded expectations or not.Schedule a meeting with your CPA to discuss your goals and tax planning.After all of your budgeting and goal planning, there’s another very important step.

I found this quote that you posted:  "Also proud to say our quads and duplexes (which are rarely offered by other builders) have not only exceeded our estimates for rent & rent growth but value growth as well."

Also, be sure to check with the section 8 agency managing the tenants - sometimes if you pass on an additional cost like that they will no longer be eligible to live there if the rent and utilities exceed what they were approved for.