Also, I would prefer to have a renter cover expenses during the cold months and make sure there are no issues with pipes freezing. 

If you're the only one charging for gas on top of the rent, then I wouldn't consider it.Unlike water, and if you control the thermostat as I do at my rentals, unless the tenants purposely leave the windows open on cold days to spite you, you do have some control over gas usage.

Cold calling FSBO's, realtor's, CL, Mailers, etc...?   

The idea that you should just cold call people who syndicate deals is often thrown out there but its not really practical. 

FYI: Spokane is cold in the winter.

Hi BP Community, I am in need of some input from a potential deal I came across cold calling owners through craigslist. 

You have to take in to account that they will be working the hardest when the weather is the most extreme whether it be hot or cold.

There are no repairs requested, no loan contingency, no appraisal contingency. typically no cold feet buyers who back out for no good reason, etc. 

Has the cold calling for these seller leads been working for you?

Either way, he's passing the stuff on......Its one thing to flash a bunch of cold hard $$$ in front of a 40 years old that can still enjoy it vs showing it to someone that is near the end of their life.