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.

Here are some of the options we are considering:1) Keep the system basically as is, but update it for greater energy efficiency. - Install two new high efficiency condensing boilers, and update windows and insulation for better heat loss performance.PROS - a) minimally invasive; b) can provide 15-30% reduction in heating costs (we are told).CONS - a)total gas expense is still paid by the landlord; b) individual units won't have individual control (except for a thermostat controlled shutoff valve for heat/water in each unit); c) AC would be available on with in wall/window units. 2) Try to individually meter each units' gas and provide each with a traditional forced air heating/cooling system.PROS: a)gas expense could be completely removed for landlord (huge)- even tankless hot water could be installed in each unit; b) each unit would have their own climate control.CONS: a) constructions costs of running new gas lines and soffiting sheet metal duct work. b) highly invasive with collateral construction costs; c) future costs of maintenance on multiple systems vs a single building-wide system. 3) An electric based heating system- This is tricky in my mind because of the high cost of electric heat.