There are these things called utilities - you know, things like electric, water, gas, phone, cable, etc. - that are turned on when somebody lives in a house.

In the past few years we had multiple problems with pipe leaks, which the landlord attempted to fix without much success.

Certainly, there are some basic things such as EQ bolting for the foundation to framing connections and EQ shut off valves at the gas meter that are much cheaper.

Very hard to make those leak, outside of physical damage.

But if he bought even one property that was a derelict gas station, an old dry-cleaner or industrial site, he bought himself a bill from the EPA for cleanup.

Roof leaks and windows leak moisture that runs down and damages floor areas by the windows.

Hvac systems will need to be replaced and converted from gas to all electric.

I must have a gas leak or something, It doesn't smell like gas at all around the property though.

Now, after all these years, I see that just knocking it down and running like heck then going back and tossing a cup of gas on it then cleaning it up is all wrong. :)

That home was in much better condition, but had much less land.The land this time is in 'shale country' and they did get an offer for a drilling lease which they turned down - so that may add some value, but not much, gas prices have plummeted since and I think the gas companies are not running around leasing every inch of land anymore.They plan to upgrade the homeowners to 'vacant homeowners' in case the pipes and wiring are stolen - but it would still be a huge hassle.I know for sure they have no problem that a purchaser might be getting 'a deal'.