You are also in the northeast which is crazy expensive to heat, especially if using electric heat.

Tenants used the propane for 9 years, then we decided to switch to heat pump with central air and stopped using the propane.

. $225KProperty Features:First floor: 2 bed/1 bath, potential rent $1,200Second & third floor: 4 bed/2 bath, potential rent $1,500Separate utilities and heating/central AC systemsInitially, I projected over an 8% cash-on-cash return.

It's mainly used for heating and the fireplace.

Running the heat is not nearly as costly as flood damage.You winterize by (at minimum) keeping heat on and draining exterior and unnecessary plumbing.

I don't find anyone abusing heat or air conditioning and since I provide all utilities including the Internet, I have actually come too appreciate the simplicity and additional control I have.

Something's gotta change and for now, I think it's gonna have to be me ; ((A tenant without heat for 6 months over the winter?!?

Usually they call the handyman first if they have a problem like no heat or a water leak or something.

.  :-) And after speaking with another lender, it's confirmed a log cabin based on the heat source and their lending guideline. 

I just viewed what looked to be a beautiful 3 unit in the photos a few days ago, but when I got there it was apparent the building had a natural gas smell in the basement, plus the owner pays all heat for the building since there is only one furnace.