Through 2013 the Mortgage Debt Relief Act protected owner occupants but that expired at the end of last year so I've yet to see how that's going to effect sellers this year.

Sounds like this bank is dropping out of the residential mortgage market because of Dodd - Frank and/or the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau.

Maybe Florida fraud comes to our attention a lot because people are more vigilant and or/public about it there?

If the unoccupied units are very cold and there's a way to get power into them, it can be helpful to run a heat lamp on the main supply line where it comes into the unit.When you wrap the pipes, check the R-value of the product you're using and make sure you're using the one that provides the most protection.

Hoping @JonHoldman has an idea for approximate cost to pull this off.

save your money the local realtor boards provide the MLS to it's members (brokers/agents) and usually they offer public access to their system, although not as sexy as say a Zillow or Truilia the data is very accurate and updated within minutes not days also when you sign up there is no spam and you have direct access to the listing agent.

Without knowing all the details I would normally say the multi family Because of the cashflow and also the fact that with 2 units better protection against vacancies.

Financing contingency might be acceptable financing at a rate no higher than x%, name your poison.The lender will protect you as they will protect themselves with an appraisal, required repairs and title work.This way you don't spend money before you have a contract.

Go with the one you feel most comfortable AND protected with.I've just been busy with selecting a home in The Villages, FL and only have a week to do so.

I wouldnt fix until she has the heat turned back on , you need to protect your investment .