You also want to look for wear and tear from where the sun hits the exterior most often as there could be issues of heat exposure to some parts of the home.

Heat and hot water are included in the rent because of only 1 water meter and 1 water heater.

@scottmac I read the lease, It states the landlord is liable for "structural elements, and exterior walls of the building" would the garage be considered in those terms? 

Yeah, if you want hot water and heat, you need to pay your bills. 

Is this a Heat/AC unit in a property that had baseboard electric? 

Distance adds an element of risk.

Again, just told myself that it was plan A and I can't let plan B get in the way, I was willing to take the heat from work knowing it was for a better reason.

taxes, heat, electric, water, garbage etc 

The other $2500-7500 will be for bigger tasks like getting heat to one of the bedrooms, repairing the ceiling of another bedroom, and leveling out the driveway.I think I can re-do the painting and flooring options myself.

(normally recommended, especially if you are a landlord)- Water Backup: For water damage due to the backup of Sewer s or Drains.Your age should not be a factor on the pricing but, depending on the company these other factors may get you credits:- Insurance Score (company pulls certain info out of your credit report)It is not your credit score but generally better credit will result in a better score- Time at your job- Education level- time at current residence Here are some things to look for from an Insurance prospective:1.Any in-ground tanks (active or inactive)2.Any Knob & Tube or Aluminum Wiring3.If built before 1978, does the building have Lead Safe certifications4.Any wood stoves or secondary heating units.