The perception of desperation, failure to acknowledge personal space etc. could be some of the negatives of such an approach. 

Real estate is one of the last great free-market environments. everything is negotiable, and some providers are better than others, meaning they offer more complete/sophisticated service and response, wider marketing exposure, etc.I compete routinely against both higher than 5% and lower than 10% management rates and anywhere from one month's rent for a leasing fee, to half that. 

As a buyer, seller, broker, how does this phrase change your perception of the property?

Put your interests in alignment with your investors rather than in opposition to their interests and you can build a much more profitable and long term sustainable business with the same financially sophisticated clients rather than always having to constantly search for the next sucker.

Even if we're all wrong on electric being far more costly, perception is reality and you'll then have to "sell" that premise to any tenant with half of a brain and if ever selling, to the many buyers who'll undoubtedly object.The other point someone already mentioned but that is TOTALLY on point is where our electric bills will be going vs gas bills down the road.

There are of course (sneaky) ways to inspect the property without tenant being aware of the sale discussion (posing as insurance agent etc), however I do not want to run this business in a sneaky way, and even create a perception of being scam-y or sneaky with the customers... 

I have not looked deep into your market, but I have this perception of high $$$ to jump in and maybe I need a few more properties before I can come over to your neck of the woods, but maybe I am wrong, so please feel free to educate me if so!

If real estates becoming so sophisticated for the average joe to comprehend.

It is a lot of pieces to negotiate and the renter/buyer is usually not sophisticated enough to be comfortable with it.

Today's buyers are MUCH more sophisticated and design-savvy than they were even a few short years ago, and WILL notice, appreciate, and even pay a bit more for that professional difference.