Sounds like you stopped water which is most important.

Currently, based on Altos Research, inventory is up 10% YOY and this has put pressure on median list prices which are down 5% YOY.

It provided loss of use coverage and high liability limits but at less than 50% the cost of the quote I got from Proper.

I highly suggest getting to some local meetup groups...here is BPs list:  https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-...I also have a full list of the chicago meetups that I can share with you too if that'd be helpful.

With rates high, I don't see much changing in the market as buyers struggle to afford a mortgage. 

The risk is too high of losing everything.

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.

Hard money loans offer fast approval and don't risk personal assets but come with high-interest rates and fees, which can be tax-deductible as carrying costs.

Condo's are usually on the cheaper end of cost for appraisal reports, typically not $750 (but if it's a high end condo or in an area with there's some complexity, the fee can reflect that). 

BiggerPockets also has a calculator to analyze deals, and I highly recommend you start this as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to buy.