That in combined with some maintenance/management projects down the road, perhaps selling is the way to go....if you have a plan for a larger investment with greater returns. 

I spoke with an insulation/air sealing specialist and he suggested combining the three (solar and air source heat pumps plus oil backup) was the way to go - plus there are lots of loan programs in Mass (solar loans, heat loans for heat pumps, etc) to help move in this direction. 

@Mindy JensenLoose/ falling off top runs look like they were poorly installed, likely not enough expansion room left combined with nailed too tight in a few spots.

The fact that it has been vacant for 5 years combined with the fact that I'm pretty inexperienced make me shy away from it though.  

This is usually temporary, as savvy investors will notice this and purchase the cheaper homes and rent them out for the higher price, which may drive up home prices, drive down rent, or some combination.

Her details:Original purchase $190KUpgrades (to finish 2nd floor/ windows flooring etc) $22kApprox Value $300kHer Mortgage balance $110kWe have been looking into options of combining equity, initially to build but not sure if the scenario above is possible.

You do that in a combination of ways:1) Read....read, read, read, read, read. 

I am also looking to possibly work with a mentor as I believe that could be very beneficial.Understanding that there are many strategies to build wealth, I am very open to different strategies and/or combining strategies.

I made that mistake when I did a rehab, combined everything into one large asset into the cost basis of the building.

I've seen family members and friend get sick and nobody can afford to pay for medical treatments or hospice care.