I'm probably an  anomaly here, but here's my general system: Tenants pay all utilities. 

We just installed an AI text & dialing system which can handle real phone conversations and book meetings into a calendar.

@Glen Michael I've heard Peter Lohmann talk about using NPS scores for their residents and owners, I don't know too much about it, but I think it's a system designed to get a real idea on how they're doing.

Do you mind elaborating on the consolidation versus liquidation approach?

It sounds like you're on the right track with a clear goal in mind 8-10 properties and leaving the W-2 in 3-5 years is ambitious but definitely doable with the right strategy.When it comes to whether to be aggressive with paying down one property versus spreading it across a few and paying down slower, it really depends on your risk tolerance and long-term goals.

If you're talking about investing in New Construction versus existing houses, and not GC'ing new construction then your lenders won't care about your construction background. 

I also notice a lot of the school systems are not rated that well.

Sometimes it's ambiguous, but even then, why should I bother with the company that has numerous unresolved lawsuits, versus another company that is virtually the same but has none.

How can I help versus how can I benefit.  

Yes, this system probably works for a more seasoned investor, but definitely not for a rookie.