I am covering utilities for the 1st floor and garden unit (for a 3-unit MFH rental)Any recommendations for a programmable thermostat where I can lock appropriate temperature ranges?

Quote from @Min Zhang: Hey Alan, I have seen areas like Cleveland and Dayton with COC ranging from 10-18% and Columbus is around 8-12% with strong growth. 

I've had success with 2 short-term rentals, and wanted one more in relative close range to work and life.

As mentioned above your new rate should actually be 6-7 range not 8s so shop around.

Investing in multifamily properties in Philadelphia is popular due to the city's steady population growth, job opportunities, relatively affordable property values, and solid rental demandPhiladelphia’s multifamily market offers a range of opportunities, from high-end neighborhoods to up-and-coming areas with great cash flow potential.

@Tom Dean we have viable options in that price range in the Myrtle Beach market and around Conway (home of Coastal Carolina University). 

In my market I think $2,000-2,500 might be the range I would use but your market may differ. 2.

If I had it to do again, I would press him for a range, but hindsight 20/20.

Also pricing tends to be in the $250k+ range for SFHs, so cash flow may be difficult depending on how one is financing the deal.

What price range do you want to be in?