Figuring out utilities, two units - one thermostat!

[Cassia G.]

Trying to decide what I should do with a property I just purchased. I closed on a two family yesterday that I am intending to house hack. It has shared gas metering and separate electric.  There is also only a thermostat in the downstairs unit to control the heat with the radiators in the house. I am considering installing a mini split system, hoping this might solve the issue that there is only one thermostat and also since there's no central air. I'm not sure if this is completely necessary or if there is another way around it. I would love any advice anyone has to offer!

[Jacob Morgan]

@Cassia G. In the northern states it is common for landlords to separate the heat bills by installing inexpensive electric baseboard heaters in one or both of the apartments. They only cost $50-$75 per heater and will need to be have proper electric lines run for them, likely by an electrician. You can avoid the cost for the furnace or expensive mini splits with this option. However, this may not be the best option if you are in a warm climate and the local rentals typically have central AC instead of window units.