If it's the case that you are in an area where this is a consistent problem, it may be better to install a whole house surge protector at the main panel.

I don't think the future will be kind to the investors who bought cheap houses in a big community of other investors. 

Sounds like the house is not local to you, OP.

Quote from @Vid Vin: Was the house really for 2000 dollars?

build to rent is great. they are an intermediary that help investors contract direct with turn key new build. they are pretty sophisticated we have sold a house so far and we are looking to sell other multifamily with them. there is a vetting process and as an intermediary they don't control construction they help vet builders and establish relationships. they have a big team. the other builder I've never heard of but unless you can see your house I wouldn't touch it. rent to retirement has a strict policy of 90 days until certificate of occupancy until they will send a deal out they are good at what they do and I'd recommend them. they have options all over the country and established relationships.

Condo or house I am open to either, as long as it can be a reliable rental. 

I understand moving out of your home and occupying a unit in a duplex may be the best financial decision but make sure it’s the best decision for your family because transitioning from a single family house to an apartment with a family of 4 is not always the easiest transition.

You could have bought a house, or several, that would have doubled in value.

Cash for keys is definitely the best way to get people out in the day when I was very active at court houses steps cash for keys was by far the best way to get folks to move and bad tenants in a state with bad eviction laws to me would be the preferred method. you simply pay them when they are leaving the house not before.. that works fine and you give them more than 1k .. you make it worth their while..

this is a direct relation to lack of inventory.. new construction on many markets is as robust as its ever been.. we have had spectacular years the last 3 years of course during covid was tough with supply chains but my 500k house I am now selling for 700k and my build cost have gone up by maybe 100k.. so record profits for us..