Turns out the actuaries were ahead of the curve on assessing the impacts of climate change, and the flood insurance was so high that the property would never have cash flowed as a rental.For a year or two after I passed on it, I did check on that property to see what came of it.

The last time I looked all the wealthy climate change lunatics are buying houses on the coast and places that they say will be underwater soon.

If you are in a climate zone that makes a heat pump appropriate (they work and save money even in Michigan) they will have environmental, comfort, and financial benefits for the home's occupants.This price seems reasonable for a 2.5 ton installation.

Nevada is landlord-friendly, with low property taxes, tech job growth, population growth, and a mild climate with strong appreciation potential.

Once again, it depends on your real estate market climate and seasonality of your rental.  

Wise or unwise, the climate is not prohibitive except fully rain exposed.

@Staci Rogers - Long term plans would be keep the newer home as a forever home, and it's in a warmer climate so assuming less repairs of the busted pipes variety, etc.

We would love to meet local residents and learn more about the investment climate in and around SLC. 

I think one is better served by looking at the current economic climate in the world , region and city and then making your judgements.  

How does the climate of MF intersect with the political climate of rent control?