Health and safety inspections don't seem to care much about zoning or permitting issues.

There isn't a 10 year old that cares about that...and parents would be happy that they are happy.   

Pros - guaranteed rent, tenants stay longer on averageCons - more mgmt needed (lease violations), they tend to not take great care of properties (increase maintenance expense or deferred maintenance)

I care most about the Internal Rate of Return (helps me determine how long to hold a property), the cash on cash return (helps me decide why this investment vs other options, and it also takes into consideration appreciation of the property!)

Unfortunately, every state and every locality has different laws and what works in one location doesn't always work in others, so you have to be very careful about the 'free' advice that is given in online forums. 

Makes me think they could be too busy taking care of a new baby to attend to guest issues? 

I would just be careful hopping back in now as interest rates and low inventory are making it very difficult if you aren't finding your own off-market options to buy.

You're feeding 2 dogs with one biscuit by taking care of your living expenses and generating rental income at the same time, and by living in the house and keeping it to 4, you generally get exemptions on things that might bother you to live with (IE you can choose whomever you want as your tenants without running afoul of fair housing laws).

I was able to close on a townhouse near UMBC (close enough) with the help of an awesome real estate agent who reached out to me after I posted this. 

• Should utilities, internet, or services like snow removal/lawn care be included, or not?