They seem to much easier/cheaper/most energy efficient than an HVAC on paper. 

Can you imagine how much riskier an empty house is than an occupied one?

So you would need to purchase it for less than an investor would.

It is technically YOUR money, so banks are willing to accept that as a down payment more than an unsecured loan from another bank.

You're still about a little less than an hour from midtown.

You should be able to purchase a 3 month policy which would, of course, be cheaper than an annual one. 

If your project is smaller, you are probably better off working with a local contractor who is familiar with local requirements rather than an Upwork consultant.

I'm not going to list a property when you have nothing more than an illegal contract with a distressed seller.2.

That's not worth it to a lot of people who may already be successful and well respected in their jobs, or who recognize that success and respect are closer in the work they are already doing and have experience with than an entirely new industry.

If you are looking at buy and hold, you are better off with a loan than an investor partner.