I am a CT based investor, flipper and property management company owner.  

The current one lasted 8 years and needs to be replaced (as per what our property manager is saying)I heard front loaders could leak, so I typically only do top loaders for rentals.

My suggestion would be to cap your utilities at a certain amount and have Tenants pay anything over that amount.That will help you manage your expenses, and also allow Tenants to gage their usage each month, and make adjustments if they don't want to go over the allotted amount.As far as collection, provide the bill showing any overages and just have them pay for it along with their rent. 

I would try and manage it yourself if you have the time and effort. 

You know just as well as I do that the entry level SFH turn key model is nothing but a money grab for the turn key providers and PM's who ultimately manage the properties for them.

I am glad you highlighted the management piece as this is a crucial part of buying in another market.Excited that you are stabilized and are generating cash flow on that deal. 

Ive been using the same for many years now and its my foundation for operations, follow-up, workflow management and communications. 

Not a rookie - While I have never purchased a home without an agent, I have purchased two homes in the last fifteen years in Denver and, at some point, managed both with some form of rental income, plus helping my mom manage the independent basement apartment in her home.

Louis, MO real estate, ABODEbucks is a full-service STR-specific management company charging a flat $250/mo + $20/night booked.

The utility company doesn't manage your property...they provide paid services until they're not paid anymore.