Insurance companies want to fix it the cheapest way possible, and their goal is to minimize out-of-pocket expenses like this one.  

Obviously tough to give advice based on minimal info and no info on your personal situation.

The best thing about a new build is the capital expenses and maintenance and repairs will be minimal for many years.  

, I really need to keep it simple and minimize risk since I live abroad.

You can't decide which one to choose based on the minimal information you provided.

I happened to get lucky this year and had minimal expenses there.

You minimize your risk of violating Fair Housing Law or compliance issues using an experienced property manager.3.

I would buy a deal that at least minimally cashflows (they exist) and then plan to refi in the 18-36 month window.

In the one house that I still have some existing, it's only on an overhead light circuit with no insulation around it, and I minimize the load on the circuit by using only low voltage LED lights. 

Simplicity: TDAs require minimal effort after initial setup, making them attractive for those seeking stress-free investment.For investors like myself, seeking both stability and growth, combining a TDA with real estate investments creates a diversified portfolio.