I would count on having at least half market rate tenants, in the event Section 8 rents are higher than market, which they are in our market (granted you will need to subtract the utilities from the rent).  

The first apartments I rented as the owner, were previously rented by the former owner at $150 month including utilities. 

Utilizing the VA loan is a good first step in terms of investing.

Many places only allow utilities in the owners name.

There are quite a number of things that can make utilizing an FHA loan more difficult such as more barriers during appraisal, appearance of low qualification/little cash, typically longer closing period, likely higher interest rate, and PMI cannot be dropped without a refinance if 3.5% down.That said, just chain 5% down conventional loans, and make sure your duplexes pay for themselves.  

Replacement homes will be climate hardened, smaller, functional and include consideration for the type of infrastructure, architecture and sustainable/durable materials utilized. 

Is there a way to utilize part of my Traditional IRA funds as a down payment on a SFH investment property without being penalized?

- We had 2 break-in & furnace & HWH thefts there this year:(File a claim ASAP, you'll need:1) Utility bills to prove electric & gas were on2) A police report, proving a break-in3) Pics/video to prove the condition of the property to support theft claimWhat are you doing to mitigate additional damages?

Does that include utility service to the house, a driveway, septic and well? 

The house had the utilities turned off for the 6 years, and was filled with the original 1 owner's furniture, clothes, appliances, car and ecn food in the frig (without elctric on for 6 years).