I normally use Rentometer to check my rents, and it shows historical trends over time for comparable properties.

From what I've learned over the weekend from David Green, you need to do a cash-out refinance, at 90% LTV.Because interests are so low historically this could be better than a HELOC.The way how I am getting started is by creating an LLC first, precisely because of what you stated in your introduction, I don't want to drag my personal business with my personal finances.

I will say that rates are the lowest they've been historically and likely won't stay at these levels for long, so I'd lock in a low owner occupant rate now while you can.

Investment Info:

Small multi-family (2-4 units) buy & hold investment.

Purchase price: $80,000

Cash invested: $2,000

This was an off-market property was purchased through a wholesaler that I met ...

I am also very interested in environmental conservation and historic restoration.   

Historically how easy has the property been to rentMy reason for asking is, would I be willing to take a lower return - 6-8% if the multi family is in top condition and renting it is relatively painless (so less overall risk).

.- Replace current A/C which is from the '80s- Add insulation in the attic (this was noted in the inspection report)My utility company will not provide historical usage due to "data privacy" so I am starting from scratch.To summarize my main questions: 1) Should I add any terms in the lease, and 2) Any other suggestions on conserving energy when I don't live there?

Home is in a historic district, basement is full of mold due to leaks.

CA never disappoints ;)While interest rate is historically low, I wonder how many family is not house poor at this point.

Historically there have been more than one encryption schemes advertised as "non hackable" only to later be hacked.