Also @Nick Gentle can help with NZ specific investing as he works in property finding here.Hope those connections might help to build your knowledge base

Hunter Byler just make sure it was done properly and that there are no signs of mold from the moisture.

They stayed warm due to generating lots of heat internally and only heating the portions of the house being used {i.e. you would not heat the dining room or salon during the night}.With older properties we usually lay-out a plan to improve the building envelope first through air sealing (getting rid of drafts and convection within the wall cavities) and, where possible, insulation {not always straight forward ... many old brick buildings have limited insulation options due to the brick requiring heat transfer from inside to drive moisture from the brick}.Around here it is not uncommon to find an old mansion converted to multiple units - or the occasional purpose-built multi-unit - where the operating costs are 70 - 80% of the revenue and heating comprises 20 - 25% of the operating costs.  

Unfortunately not so but I thought I should give you the gentle reminder.

We recommend they be fully evaluated by a qualified electrical contractor or engineer.The front bedroom closet has foam insulation installed as the ceiling but has gaps around the sides that are not fully fire blocked/fire sealed to the level above.There are moisture stains and biological growth at the bottom of the rear bedroom closet wall opposite the bathroom.ATTICWe could not find attic access in the interior of the home, there was a window on the front of the house over the front porch but it was caulked/sealed shut and we could not open it without causing damage.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Home improvement stores and donation centers selling new and gently used furniture, appliances, home goods, building materials and more.

The parameters for the inspection are pretty bare-minimum for any reasonably built and maintained unit,    but if you are looking at converting a basement with low ceilings,  uneven or dirt floors,  moisture issues, no or very small windows,  etc.  

I have gently probed him to see what his desires are with the house.

I gently asked her when she would pay, and she freaked out on me saying how could I throw her out during Christmas with three kids.....  

Moisture and laminate do not do well together.