Build up some cash and use it to do deals, or improve the property, or go somewhere warm to escape a Michigan winter for that matter (OK, maybe the last one isn't a good return on capital, but I'm afraid of the cold, so would be looking at how to fund my escape).  

Taxes: $3000Insurance: $1500Maint: $3636 (assuming 10% gross rents)Prop Mang: $3636 (again assuming 10% gross rents)Lawn & snow: $1200 (assuming $100 per month) we are in a cold weather climate with lots of snowSOOOO....My numbers:225,000 purchase price with 25% down (4.5% interest rate 30 yr) and $2000 closing costsGOI: $34,178Expenses including utilities and prop mang: $21,972NOI: $12,206Cash flow after mortage: $1946Cap rate: 5.43%Cash on cash: 3.34%To me these are lousy numbers and I would never buy the place but it sold in one day!

It's a long story; the job isn't ending cold turkey, just slowing way down such that I need supplemental income.

Yes glad I am in Charlotte right now instead of Cleveland as cold as it is up there.

Most likely wouldn't do that you'd probably end up with complaints on really cold days.  

I'd say the only way to really reduce the anxiety is to not hang a lot of hopes on each individual deal.

Some tenants will keep it really cold and then create lots of moisture through showers with lots of company, cooking, plants etc.Did you ever notice any odors before you rented to them?

Also, here in Pittsburgh, I imagine not a lot of properties move between October and February in real estate - gray, gloomy, and cold weather 

Ok well thats a month ago and its been cold , you are out of oil , I even show her on the dip stick.  

@Sharon Leigh Depending on how hot or cold home sales are in that area, getting recent true comps on your own can be difficult.