As a hard money lender who works with many investors in the Portland area, I can share some insights on maintenance costs for multifamily properties in this market, though individual experiences may vary:Lots of investors report a slight decrease in maintenance costs during winter months, bc of:- Fewer landscaping needs - Less wear and tear on HVAC systems (as heating is generally less intensive than summer cooling)- Reduced tenant turnover in winterWinter-specific issues can arise:- Potential roof repairs due to heavy rain or occasional snow- Gutter cleaning and maintenance to prevent water damage- Heating system repairs or maintenancePortland-specific factors:- The mild climate helps reduce extreme weather-related maintenance issues. - Older housing stock in some areas may require more upkeep. - Strict local regulations can also sometimes increase compliance-related maintenance costsCost-saving strategies I've seen help:- Preventative maintenance programs can help reduce overall costs obviously - Some investors report success with in-house maintenance teams for larger portfolios- Energy-efficient upgrades can help reduce utility costs in the long runYour specific costs will depend on factors like the age and condition of your properties, your management style, and the specific neighborhoods you're invested in, but hope this helps!

If the rent of that 2 bedroom was $1600, that person would expect to pay $800 rent and maybe another $250 for electric, water, heat, internet for a total of $1050 all included.

We are owed approximately $2,300.00 in back rent and heating oil bills. 

STRs are so fluid with peak seasons for the attractions based on your location that it makes it a little tougher to guestimate what your numbers for the year could look like.

In other words, guests will only be able to control the AC between your locked min/max temperatures, but they would not be able to change to heat mode.

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.  

Now with heat, people do tend to be a bit more reasonsable.

Getting the idea of a summer home to beat the heat in Arkansas.

Heated towel racks always go over well.Keurig coffee with coffee pods and condiments.Gift upon arrival.Hope that helps.Mike

I moved in with no heat, no water, and a very poor electrical situation but by this time i was working for my mentors construction company and had an abundance of resources at my disposal.