Unfortunately NY requires a RE license to wholesale in the state.

That said, an umbrella doesn't have anything to do with the original question of the thread. 

First, there are about 6 states that I refuse to invest in because of their tax laws and what I consider to be an unfriendly business environment.

I would keep track of of all the losses, and work with a CPA.

Quote from @Todd Boone: If it is, what kind of investment? 

You should come to one of the Lynchburg meet ups, the next one we are touring a flip.

This is not the utility company's responsibility.Your lease should state the tenant is responsible for maintaining utilities.

Where to get the most recent and accurate data for things like:Unemployment dataPopulation growthJob diversity and top employers in the areaVacancy rates (eg huduser.org)Property taxes and jnsurance costsI saw bp pro and reventure and a bunch of other websites provide some of this data, but i wonder how accurate and recent it is.

I have a rental in Danbury and short term rentals out of state. 

Many of my clients are high W2 earners who are taking advantage of the "STR loophole."