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).

If you just want to build your cash reserves then flipping is the way but just be careful - that too takes a lot of work and research to make sure you don’t lose money.  

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

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. 

I encourage anyone reading this and thinking about co-living to pay attention to this part very carefully.

Pics show like it's just an ordinary house - well taken care of like 731 Pine Ave.

I think that could be dangerous if people are not careful in their evaluation. 

Now Wyoming is interesting as it is a state that allows you to hide partners of an llc from the public. 

Be careful with flood zone properties.