We were "horrified/surprised" that many of the "Motel 8" units had lasted as long as 20 years (we're in Florida so AC life is half of what it is in "normal climates"). 

If you buy in this area this kind of house what would I expect in rent.Keep in mind in colder climates and in most all markets there are renting seasons. so timing of bringing your product to market is important. 

The United States of America has has opted out of the Paris Climate accord and has taken the official position that climate change either doesn’t exist and or is a hoax.Given the above FACTS, we need to get set for a whole lot more flooding and the concerns that should and will consequently go along with them.On the bright side I may be able to fish off my backyard patio in Colorado in the the too distant future.

How do the experienced rehabbers in colder climates cope with the winter season?

They'll move to the stock market or other investments when the climate changes.

Pools can be asset to a home in marketing the house especially in warmer climate areas.  

In our Southern Indiana climate folks spend about as much money over the course of a year heating their water as cooling their home. 

Which is exactly why I do so little investing locally.I have absolutely no desire to build anything here, not just because of the regulatory climate but also because of what I think will be a challenge finding trade labor. 

Furthermore, the survey takers responded that they do not see the current market climate as an appropriate time to purchase real estate.

My experience as an investor, I made the mistake of buying in fall/winter in our climate and ended up with frozen pipes and one hell of a mess by settlement.