If you're not sure of you preferred direction with your next property I would invest in understanding investing more thoroughly and read 5-10 books as well as speak to other experienced investors.

From my understanding, it might be more advantageous to refinance as a rental property at a lower LTV with income from two units, rather than as owner-occupied at a higher LTV with only one rental income considered.

I’m struggling to understand why all of this is necessary just to use their property management software.

Verifying last 2 years of rental history and income extremely important to find the “best of the worst”.Make sure you understand the Class of properties you are looking at and the corresponding results to expect.The City of Detroit has 183 Neighborhoods we’ve analyzed.DM us if you’d like to discuss this logical approach in greater detail!

I also understand that some cash buyers, unlike many of those motivated by greed, are honest and knowledgeable, however I find it difficult to identify them.

These experiences shape my growth-mindset and value-first orientation, ensuring I bring a unique perspective to every deal.Personal Insight:As a father of six, I understands the importance of balancing family values with sound investment strategies.

This does not involve the utility company meaning that you will still have to go into the property, read the meters, then individually bill each tenant for their usage and understand the bill is still in your name.

Not questioning your judgement/assessment, just trying to understand the situation to best advise you. 

It is my understanding that gifting a property does nothing to step up basis as the capital gains would follow the gift. 

Thus, my main goal joining this forum is to try to gain confidence in the decision to get into real estate investment and better understand the risks that I may not be considering due to my lack of experience in the field.