Biggest operating expense is oil heat at 6k/yr.

Also, many of the systems could be shared, such as heating and hot water, and you could run into community features like a swimming pool or laundry room.

OK for heat, but not for the AC.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/27/business/affluent-buyers-reviving-market-for-miami-homes.html?

- Was that room heated/cooled?

Putting some replacement wallpaper up is obviously a repair.The IRS gives some examples of things that may fall into the gray area, but are actually improvements: Additions, like new rooms and decks Major changes to lawn and grounds, like roads and landscaping Miscellaneous major upgrades, like rewiring or a new roof Heating and air conditioning units Plumbing systems Interior improvements like appliances InsulationThe difference between an improvement and a repair can be a costly one.

Long story short, I hired another hauler who (after nearly dieing of heat exhaustion) managed to get the mess cleared out.I can report that this property is now rented out after having been substantially renovated.

I am from NYC and have a 2 bedroom apartment in South Beach Miami.

HOA fees in this area sometimes include heat because there is one central boiler.

No clue but will be interesting to hear the answers.For others buying property a "thermal imaging reader" will show cold zones and whether walls are insulated or not.You will see from the heat loss readings.