alot of sellers freeze up when a realtor is invovled and think you are trying to gain a listing or commission

I looked at that bearded face and thought - if this is the face of real estate investing I must get out before hell freezes over :)Take it easy.

They'll run the AC down to 60 degrees in a 100 degree summer, and turn the heat up to 80 degrees in the freezing winter.

The only time I have had issues with pipes freezing is when temps. drop to single digits.  

I am remembering that freezing property taxes was in the current IL budget bill.  

They're great as long as the temp stays above freezing.

Like I said their annual review/monitoring your DTI on a consistent basis is a little nerve-wrecking because they could freeze it.

I have seen over the years a lot of investors who freeze like "deers caught in the headlights" because they over complicate the process.In summary:Find the right property at a good discount from average market prices in the area (distressed properties, pre foreclosures, tax delinquent, etc.)

I understand the hesitation and temptation, so I would take it a step further and then cut the chase card in half as soon as you can, and put your existing credit cards in water and freeze them in the freezer.

If its a cold environment and pipes can freeze then it could be likely the owner shut the water off to the second floor.