I have property in Sugar Run, PA but that is the extent of my knowledge about the state of Pennsylvania.

Check utility consumption.

Can't have any sugar coating when it comes to investing.

One does not need a degree (although states are moving toward a degree requirement for Realtors) but taking several business classes will provide an investor with tremendous tools for success.IMO, there are some basic undergraduate courses that would serve anyone contemplating working real estate .Personal finance, provides an understanding of investments and personal business consumption, like renting vs. buyingBusiness finance, provides consepts of financial leverage, sources of funding, corporate entities and cash flowAccounhting 101 and 102, basic business accounting, the language of businessEconomics Micro and Macro, provides one with an understanding of alternative choices, economic factors that drive individual decissions in commerce These courses will really assist you in getting it, especially in appraising.

Are we going to ban the possession and consumption of pot brownies?

Unemployment still not low enough to justify it and its not like Xmas showed fantastic retail consumptions.

We always replace the fixtures (toilets, shower, faucets) in our new acquisitions with modern, low-flow fixtures to cut down on water consumption - the cost of which has always been in our hands {until now ... we are embarking on our first retrofit of sub-metered water into one of our properties}.

I was wondering if any of you have added dishwashers and have seen a measurable decrease in water consumption as a result. 

That means less overall consumption, etc... down we go. 

Even if your new washers are not Energy Star, or even HE units, they should be a little wiser with water consumption and, with a new 40usg heater you will be fine.