Headline (total) inflation for the past month was negative, -0.1%.Core inflation (total inflation minus food and energy) was up only 0.065%, so it gets rounded to 0.1% increase.

You will get better, but it will involve a lot of time and energy to get there.Investing is the same.

You also are welcome to do your own plumbing, taxes, legal work, electrical work, landscaping, etc. 

Search for homes that have unfinished areas, separate entrances, and plumbing and electrical connections already in place.

Implementing risk mitigation measures like fire-resistant materials, updated electrical systems, and security systems can help negotiate better rates.

Such energy and sharing with one another.They will move touch and inspire you.You will want to know these people.

It appears guest somehow (by setting thermostat at below 61 degrees) about $450 of electricity.  

I have been buying tax liens for about 15 years and have quit my day job as an electrical engineer due to the Tax deed rental houses I now have.It takes work.

Make them based on what your tenants need (not want) which would also allow for them to customize (furniture use) to their tastes.I wrote a book on this a number of years ago that touches on a lot of these things, but it was focused on my specialty, "Energy Efficient, cost effective homes". 

Also, if the tenets already pay for their own electric and gas can you use RUBS (if leagal) for water and sewer?