It I hadn't already done the preliminary work to get gas, we could be weeks or months away.

The only way to know is to have an HVAC or plumbing contractor investigate.

Other than Market advice (which I could get for free via preliminary discussion) what would their potential use be other than negotiating the price down? 

I immediately called and had a repair person over to the unit to investigate and repair the issue.

I have been talking to a local credit union that preliminary told me that they would be able to provide me with a HELOC of about $140k @ 4.5% variable. 

We wanted to evaluate buying property and returning to Alaska, at some point.We are casually investigating the prospect of an investment (and possibly an out right move although I love my current job and there are not any similar positions in Alaska as I am a crime analyst for a PD).

I find that some GC's are good for one and not another - you need to do your old investigation of them, get 3-4 estimates, make sure you know exactly what you want and have your spec sheet ready for them.

So you might want to do your investigations on the sly.LOL....regarding a possible 2-fer......I wouldn't count of getting a free house.  

If the cost is higher, you should really investigate the questions above.

Skiptrace then hire a private investigator.