I'm a programmer working in the Bay Area.

Did you think to take a picture of the thermostat set to 40 degrees? 

Every 1 degree reduction in the thermostat setting results in about a two to three percent reduction in heating costs.

Also had central air installed this week; we thought about putting this off until spring, but with the mild weather this winter, we feel we got a pretty good deal by installing it now ($2,400 for the C/A unit, install, and new thermostat, and $200 for the electric work).The only major project left is the kitchen perimeter countertop; we’re still debating over laminate vs. granite, but we already have some showings scheduled for next week so we have to make a decision quickly.

I'm a Programmer/Analyst (working in Los Angeles) who will be retiring in October of 2018.

Given where you're looking to buy, however, you may have difficulty finding enough comps to determine this confidently.Another simpler option that I know a lot of landlords employ is putting a max setting on the thermostats.

Right now I am a programmer so I have something to offer as well. 

I do not have any pictures of the properties yet but the owner stated that it has fairly new hardwood floors and the only thing that it needs is a new thermostat.

I have a property with one boiler and one gas meter with six zones each with its own thermostat.

Due to the age of the system (16 years outdoor unit) (11years air handler) and the current EPA phase out of the old r22 refrigerant I recommend the heat pump system be replaced.”Neither company is willing to replace any parts on the unit due to the age and not being able to warranty them.Here is the scope of work for the price of $3750Install one new indoor air Handler with 10kw heat strips,Transition duct work to fit the new air handler,Install outdoor heat pump,Connect all high and low voltage wiring to indoor and outdoor units also to the thermostat,Install in-line PVC P-trapClear PVC drain line,Evacuate system and charge with refrigerant,Check/test system.Install Honewell digital programmable heat pump thermostatComplete system install will come with a 10 year all parts and labor warranty.What do you experts think?