I work as a field property claims adjuster and I have experience in estimating restoration damages on jobs of low to moderate complexity as well as extremely complex claims up to 100k+. 

I understand that ultimately, the responsibility falls with me...but I also wanted to reach out and see if anyone has a perspective or strategic approach to rectifying this manner. 1) Connect pipe (50ft) - not overly concerned with this aspect. 2) Clean up and have restoration company undo the damage - mildly concerned and expect a few thousand dollars fee (who pays?)

You need to have a restoration contractor give you an estimate because the insurance adjuster is going to lowball the heck out of that number.

Also, DO NOT use your local building costs as estimates for what a restoration with cost here.

I do credit restoration too, but I won't do it unless you also allow me to establish a 2-year spending plan/budget.

I started looking around using the MLS, but know choosing the right area (and ignoring even certain streets in an area) is paramount to making a good decision and need to start working with people familiar with that area that can work with.While I do have money saved up, I am also wondering how feasible it is to get traditional lending and then going through a private lender to finance the rest or at least reduce the 20% down amount to not down the money into the house – oh, and so that it cash flows?

Don't massage the numbers to fit the return you want. 

It's kind of cool as I get to see accounting in real life.In regards to your questions l, the IRS issued new regulations about capitalization of assets, and capitalization falls into four categories, Betterment, Improvement, Adaptation or Restoration.

Some of these will need to be massaged and adapted to be compliant and legal in your area.

Lots of pretty smart guys and gals agree that until reasonable affordability (of single family homes) is restored, price corrections are in order in a given market.