>A proper reflow oven is better, of course, but that's pricey.

You can do a lot worse than a $55 temperature controlled hot plate. Plus you can watch the magic happen. Of course that only works for single sided boards. I've been very impressed with the results.

https://www.amazon.com/Soiiw-Microcomputer-Soldering-Preheat...

Yes, you are quite correct in the first point. I've also met people who recommend crimping where possible as a safer and cleaner solution.