Jobs, stores, roads, healthcare services, and gas stations can all be destroyed in a disaster, as is often shown in the news.

If we lived in Satellite, we probably would get gas and use the Commissary more. 

If you have natural gas to that spot for a tanked unit, swapping to a tankless is cake.Insulate the garage door if that isn't done.If you are local and handy, you can do a DIY mini split in there for under $1000.

Just Gas and internet work. 

Is it because the gas connection was turned off and this heater needs gas to operate?

never heard of one running off propane, unlike natural gas or electric.

If you're interested in multi-family, I highly recommend starting out with multi-family with your first VA loan as it will be easier to get a single family residence after that.If you decide to pursue multi-family, you'll want to ensure that each unit is separately metered for utilities (water, gas, heat, electricity, etc.) as this is a requirement under VA financing.  

Do you have the money to have a new heater put in it of some sorts, electric baseboard, natural gas, propane- as well as a new water heater.

Your gas, more than 1% net.

Unlicensed plumber says that there is a gas leak needing gas pipe replacement, would do it for 4k.