One way my husband helps me out when I complain of being 'burned out' (even as I haven't done my first deal yet...) is to just validate that anyone working on a project that is worthwhile will sometimes feel like giving up.

In fact, I had to yank the 3rd floor kitchen, pull the 3rd gas meter, and "upgrade" the electrical to two separate service panels instead of 3. 

To validate the rent being charged and expenses from the property. 

Basically it's like buying a brand new car at 40% off , except is saves you about the same amount of money that a car would costs you in gas.

You are absolutely correct that you do NOT need anyone's validation to pursue your dream. 

There was a Twilight Zone episode where these guys rob a bank and horde gold bars, and manage to take a sleeping gas and wake up 100 years later to spend their booty.

The BiggerPockets community has served me very well in helping me find good contacts for CPA, Attorney, and RE Agent, so I am hoping for some leads on this topic as well.I don't want to have to go through my attorney and file a lawsuit just to get my Insurance to pay on a valid claim.

Is that legally valid to do it?  

Once you receive collateral file you can go through it to make sure all paper work is valid and there (chain of title etc).

I always assume electricity, gas, water, sewage, trash, snow/lawn care, and wifi to be paid by tenant (except HOA).