The problem is when someone online gives advice like let their handyman add a gas line to save and they're from halfway across the country where the rules are totally different.

You want at least a 30% margin above costs and the NOI needs to be enough to pay the debt service after stabilization and then some.If the project looks feasible from a financial standpoint the next step is to check with the city or county planning and zoning department to get an idea if your concept will work, if you can build what you would like to build and what is required for all approvals including site plan, building permits, proffers, water/sewer tap fees, bonding requirements, inspections, setbacks, lot coverages, parking requirements, height restrictions, C/O process and time frame for all approvals.You also need to check with the utility companies and get an idea of availability and cost estimates from them for water, sewer, power, gas, cable, installation and connection requirements, tap fees, hookup charges, transformer location and relocation, power line and power pole relocation issues.

Internet research how many therms of energy each gallon of heating oil provides; do the same for the units of gas (cubic feet or something). 

It just snowed 6" last night, the seller are worried about the pipes freezing, they are tired of paying their gas bill, etc --- purchasing a home in the winter time can lead to some deep discounts for motivated sellers.

There is a gas meter available but I am not sure how costly it would be to convert the oil to gas or electric for each unit.

She said that the city and county has my property listed as a single family, however there are separate electric meters, gas meters, addresses, etc.

Flip side of the argument Its easy for them not to pay the gas bill, but at least there are laws about locking gas meters in the dead of winter here.Make sure the oil tank is not buried underground.

How hard was it to protect the equipment - oil/gas tanks if any, exposed piping, boilers, etc? 

Neither have a job, but have each had 1 interview at as gas station and at a Wendy's, during and ending conveniently while I was at work and when asked for proof of even going they both blow up at me accusing them for lying.

2) Lets say I stay in the US and do not go abroad, lets say I spend 1K for food, utilities, gas, and have only 1K left...