However,  is it normal practice to hire a title company or purchase title insurance as a part of closing on a land purchase?

We work with a few DST companies.

My best recommendation here is to get with other investors in your market and ask them what techniques and companies they are using for foundation work.  

I'm a private money lender and a buy and hold investor, and in my opinion, no lender will ask for an upfront fee other than possibly asking you to pay for an appraisal or BPO directly to the valuation company.

Buffalo has been a great market for me personally and for investors in general as our property management and Realty company has grown to over 600 doors.The key to investing in Buffalo is location and asset condition.  

I talked to contractors and construction management companies and learned more about renovation in the last 2 years than I ever have, talked to multiple lenders - a few did some shady moves trying to charge me fees that are illegal (reported her to her supervisor). 

If your company will not quote up to $5mm have them check on other companies. 

Again, I would contact other title companies

I am looking for insurance companies that are good and affordable.

Buying a house with Solar installed on lease solar company wasn’t paid for 6 months by seller and is now refusing to accept back payment to reinstate the service and remove the lien.