I assume you don't have a handyman you can trust.

Assuming you must go electric, if the area is not too cold, you can install a heat pump, which is far more efficient than room heaters.

The first step is to calculate the first property's return on investment (assuming you'll pay yourself market rent).

However, for my first landlord/tenant adventure, I would assume a nearby property would result in quicker response as I iron out all my learning experiences, would you agree?

Assuming the property cash flowed and there was appreciation that took place, you could possibly make this happen.

By the end of the year we will have an attractive, fully remodeled 5-plex in a decent area close to the University, shops, hospital, etc..Preliminary calculating the commercial value as a function of the NOI and assuming a 10 cap we would seem to have gained a decent amount of equity - if we do not occupy the 2BR.

But if you are trying to verify ACTUAL rents being paid, then you have to see bank deposit statements and tax returns - assuming that there are no cash rent payments that are simply pocketed by the landlord and never showing up on the books as income.

Nice to meet you @Carlton B.This post is old so I'm assuming you have a few more properties in your portfolio by now.  

Maybe you have a minimum heat requirement that is intended to prevent frozen pipes; the fact that pipes froze would indicate a violation of such a clause / addendum.How easy would it be for you to actually collect assuming the tenant admits / concedes guilt in this matter?

So, long winded way of saying, you may be just fine to occupy YOUR OWN SPACE any way you wish since I am assuming that as it was once a separate unit it has at the very least an exterior entrance.