In warmer climates, a slab on grade may be fine, but not in an area that experiences seasonal freeze/thaw cycles.

How do people in cold climates handle homes that need exterior paint (basically all homes in my price range to some degree)?

That kind of 'problem' is the hallmark of a disordered tenant.

As with any cold weather climate, there are items that are bound to go out, so we pay a service company to check the HVAC a couple times a year.

Im thinking about selling due to climate change and water rise.  

For you US people to get what I'm talking about: Oslo is more like San Francisco or Bay Area, with more money, better climate and quality of life, while Bergen is more like Phoenix (just replace the crazy heat of Phoenix with rain every day all year round except from a couple of months during the summer).Rental yield will be a lot lower in Oslo and it would be more of a speculation on price appreciation, while Bergen would be more of a conservative bet with higher yields but prices appreciating a lot slower (Oslo: 15-20%, Bergen: 4%).The most practical would be to invest in Oslo where I live so I could get some economy of scale, but then I would lose the diversification bit and could potentially be really ****ed if the market turns too soon. 

I'd stay clear of boderline personality disorder patients and I somehow managed to not interact with any schizophrenics.

Different water heaters and furnaces, walls are often wood paneling instead of sheet rock, insulation can be an issue in colder climates, roof leaks, etc.

This question isn't about me...Say you're already moving along in RE related business in today's climate... making the right moves in whatever market you're in. 

Consider our weather climate, many people seek to purchase a home with a pool as it has many benefits.I'm not sure if the above would also apply to your location.