Seems like 21% or more as a ball park!

If the temperature goes below freezing point, pipes might burst. 

We took the highest month of "normal" winter usage we had records on -- people in the house, heat running at a reasonable temperature, washer/dryer running, etc.  

Quote from @Josh Ball: You cannot deny service animals.

Sounds like you are juggling a lot of balls in the air!

I know a year ago an investor reached out and offered him $1.6m which he felt was a low-ball offer.

I hope you or someone is at least keeping an eye on your properties for break ins, squatters, roof leaks, temperature control, frozen pipes (if in cold climate), if you have a basement and sump pump goes out leading to water damage etc.I just talked to two investors in California that have let their properties sit vacant (no mortgages so paying property taxes and insurance).

If you're looking to buy bigger buildings that's another ball game altogether.My advice: what investing do you feel most confident and excited about?

I have a feeling it was an internal "ball drop" that turned out to be very unacceptable.

As a senior baseball player looking to eventually play pro ball after this spring semester, I acquired a serious interest in doing real estate as another source of income.