I'm having difficulty finding insurance providers in Central Texas. 

It’s crucial to analyze local trends, such as population growth, employment rates, and new developments, which can impact rental demand.

This is the sledgehammer to be used only if this is a major issue for you and you are willing to take the cash flow and renovation impact now.I would do #1 and #2.

If your goal is assume a loan, I would offer the lender some sort of compensation as they are generally only paid if they write your loan, which is not the case with an assumable loan, as the current servicer will be underwriting and providing the new loan.  

Based on the info you provided, the other 2/3 don't have the same mindset as you and you aren't going to agree on what to do or how to do it. 

In short, a pre qualification letter is typically provided post receipt of an application and credit pull.

Looking at this kitchen (Rehab/Flip deal), I know how to price out work and deal with subs but how are people coming up with how to redesign the layout? I know there's CAD programs and so forth but on smaller projects...

I would pay my appraisers 50% of the fee, since I was providing all the business and had to review and be responsible for all the trainee's reports.

@Corey DuranGood insurance will provide you with more protection. 

Providing services is often more lucrative than investing on a small scale anyway.If providing services isn't your speed, your best bet will probably be to partner with someone.