I'm sure the remote nature of work has caused people to value their homes more highly for one.

So naturally everyone is trying to lock in this rate for 30 years.

Maybe you can take a look at MF syndication or some alternatives? 

A natural gas water heater will also function, especially if it’s got a pilot light (this will have hot water regardless of electricity).

Since we have already lost about $9k in rent and with unknown timing, this seems to be a worthwhile alternative to stop our losses. 

One alternative would be to set up an interest bearing bank account and simply put the accelerated payments into that instead of paying down the mortgage.

They use spreadsheets, contractor quotes, and research to learn but after that it becomes second nature.

If conventional means would not be the way to go (I don't know if you have SSI or anything else + the rental income), but if that doesn't allow you to qualify, there are alternative loan programs that don't look at personal income at all. 

@Calvin Lin Vegas builders were stuck in a mediterranean style of home for a couple of decades before finally expanding into alternatives like the style you show in the photo.  

You will need alternative sources.