Meet people from all elements of a deal (brokers, property managers, mortgage brokers, insurance agents, attorneys).

Just not them.My two cents is if you want the property, buy it from the current owner for an amount that pays the note off and satisfies any needs that need to be met by you and the owner (Offer and consideration...typical elements of a contract and sale).

Since we are paying the heat, we need to find a way to  lower the heating bills. 

Add a closet, proper windows, and supplemental heating.

Propane heat as well chimney and wood burning stove.

Propane heat as well chimney and wood burning stove.

If the HVAC is from 2002 that's likely nearing the end of its life if it's a heat pump.

New bathrooms, flooring, water heater, heat etc. 

Philadelphia has a lot more regulation on three units vs two - such as additional things you have to provide to tenants.If you can get the added income without the extra unit it might be worth keeping it at two units.Do you already have the heat separated between those two units?

Having that solid job for a while doesn't just make saving money easier, it also makes borrowing money easier, which is obviously a very important element.