Beautiful. Looks like Lynchburg and that makes me sort of homesick for that one of many "hometowns". The plastic over the windows would be a big help. If possible to shut off upstairs. Agree that the heat pump will be the most efficient, but you need to do all you can to keep the cold out. Weatherstripping, etc. It usually does not get that bitter cold in VA. Once in awhile you will get a big snow dump. I recall one 3 ft. snow.
I pray that you will soon get a job. Take anything you can get for now and it will lead you to something else. God bless and prosper you.