Insulation+heat pumps are about the same price as a new boiler/tank and a much safer investment in my opinion, who knows what oil/natural gas will cost next year or in 10 years.

But yours may be an area tied to issues like oil prices, so the holding period could be through a few cycles (think decade(s)).... 

I've run my own independent agency since 2007 been in the industry since the early 90's have 1 commercial and 2 residential properties I let currently.

Prices have continued to climb even with oil crashing in the past year and the drought hitting ag pretty hard.  

This certainly shaves the 'theoretical' margins when compared to 'C' and 'D' neighborhoods but in the long run we feel it should equal out.

Those degrees should help.I have a large interest in stocks and buying percentages in oil and gas wells, but with real estate I am not 100% sure yet if i want to invest in rental properties or flip. 

I can't speak for all TK providers, but since my model is designed for long term buy and hold, then I am going to over renovate the home with granite in A+ properties, vinyl plank flooring in high traffic areas, brush nickel faucets, oil rubbed bronze fans, brush nickel cabinet knobs/handles, new vanities, new counter tops, address 98% of the items in the buyers inspection report, thicker carpet and carpet pads in the bedrooms, ceramic tile in showers and bathrooms, new supply hoses on all plumbing connections, update electrical systems, fix/install fences, repair outdoor storage, etc.  

I hate to see newbies lose their money to snake oil salesmen, but if that's the price that must be paid to understand what a "pitch" is compared to a real education, so be it. :)    

@Jayson Greenblatt Was there a reason this house didnt have gas or even oil heat?  

I honestly don't think caulking around the sink, paint patches from holes on the dry wall, oil hinges, cleaning and basic maintenance would cost that much.