You can leverage your money to purchase more property, you'll increase your return, you'll earn more, and you get tax benefits.Read a few books on real estate investing to learn the power of leverage.

The GIS map designates it as a single-family dwelling, but the property is clearly set up as two units, with separate HVAC, electrical systems, etc.My main question is: Would it be possible to obtain a permit to legally convert it into a two-unit property?

If the power is off, you will need a generator too.

it was not the subject matter.. it was Mike Hern constantly self promoting so the powers to be remove him and his partner from BP..

I typically recommend beginning with a prequalification letter so you can have a solid understanding of your purchase power in the U.S., which will help steer you into the right markets/areas for investing.

Have a 1960s 30 unit single story motel where we are coming up on some end of life issues: the cast iron plumbing is disintegrating underneath bathrooms, radiators are starting to leak, electrical is in poor condition, and just today, discovered significant termite damage affecting multiple rooms.

For those that have already spent some time and $$$ there, what are your experiences and numbers looking like for things such as:Rental/property management feesclosing costs (as percent of transaction)vacancy rates (on and off season)price to rent ratioyoy appreciation$/sqft to build (I know, this is a "it depends" number)Utility issues (water, power, trash, septic, etc.)Anything else that you think would be helpful!

Are bills like electricity and water something that's figured into weather or not a property is self sustaining?

Which currently does not have a renter due to Power company messing up the yard and sewage system.  

It also seems to be more common in some areas of the country more than others (due to much older construction in the region, higher exposure to harsher climates, older electrical and plumbing running through the home, etc.).