Sand is helpful when the ice is too thick to melt quickly or really cold temps slow the process.If you have a lot of properties you can buy a pallet of bags at US Salt, otherwise we would get them at local big box hardware.

I had a iHome unit that monitors sound, temp, humidity etc.

He relies on temp from time to time.

I also send reminders a couple of times throughout the year (disconnect hoses, keep heat on, trickle water when temps are extremely low, etc.).

What kind of temp are they keeping the house at? 

The contract is for an off market townhome in Tempe, AZ for $250,000 with the contingency that if the appraisal amount is lower, the seller agrees to adjust the sale price to the appraised value.

This applies to all cities including Phx, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Sedona, Paradise Valley and so on.

If you look at Phoenix and Tempe and didn't know the area well, you'd think to avoid Phoenix and Tempe.

There's also a large group that do it because they have taken a temp assignment/contract in an area that might become permanent. 

Also looking at Tempe and Mesa but just started searching over there.What are your thoughts @Quintin Johnson ?