I am currently owner occupying a triplex which when I purchased had a non rent paying hoarder living in it who had completely destroyed the place.

A real estate portfolio without a pot to piss in backing it up has destroyed plenty of individuals (no less nearly taking out our economy).

On gas, they charge roughly $60 for the hookup, since it's a gas line and they're slightly worried.The downside of electric is when their gas gets turned off for non payment, many tenants convert their stove to a furnace until they destroy it.

Even if the place is new, you must factor in repairs in case a renter destroys the place or something else happens that maybe insurance can't cover.

You'll be partially covered if the tenant does something that destroys your property.As others have said, liability insurance is essential.

My first guess is that the pipes froze and totally destroyed the house.

Did you contract require the buyer to pay for any insect destroying inspection, if so, where's the receipt, was it done, were the terms of the contract accomplished?

But that's just a hope.I've had tenants completely destroy carpets after only two years.

it was just dirt - so nothing could get broken, stolen or destroyed.

You aren't going to find anything for $20K unless it's completely destroyed, most lots around here are $30K.