We're supposed to get a bunch of winter weather (snow and ice) tomorrow evening and into the night.

And then, if you're lucky and chose the right property at the right time in the right location, you might also get the icing on the cake:  appreciation in the value of the property!

I heard that they put you on ice for at least 2 years for FHA.2) How does one do an owner occupied when the only places that are remotely feasible for me financially are very questionable hoods?  

I know up here in my neck of the woods we are required to use ice barrier on the lower half of the roof to extend past atleast 2' from an exterior wall.

I can tell you that the local managers of the store appreciate having a local contact for such things as ice coming off of the roof, etc. when the owner in CA doesn't understand such issues.I also monitor a vacant unit which has sprinkler lines passing through it to make sure that the heat stays working to protect the building/sprinkler lines.

You need to describe the type of business, like auto parts or ice cream store or shoe store.If there is no RE involved, you may be looking for financing of inventory, another aspect.Also, a more specific loan amount along with information on any other financing involved, what position is the lien holder going to have?

Long story made short, I would have learned many things faster by networking and communicating with folks that have broken the ice in their own investing career.

This would be if a kid playing in the neighborhood decided that your front steps make a great skateboard ramp or if Sally the Potential Property Purchaser slips on the ice while you are showing her the property.

(Think Blanch Dubious in A Streetcar Named Desire)Really the whole situation sounds like treading on thin ice to me

Vacancy -Banks like to see 8% but a range from 8-10% is good.Garbage - Some communities bill this separate or combine it with water.Cost that people forget are snow & ice maintenance, village license and inspection costs, accounting, and annual preventative maintenance.