You can set the timing of outside yard, perimeter and building lights.

You can set the timing of outside yard, perimeter and building lights, as well as control the timing of lawn and plant watering.  

Potentially add 1 bed, 1 bath, update garage, clean yard, add a new fence to the perimeter, rent and refi.

I would defiantly agree with James Galla to get with an attorney, just to pick their brain on best practices and approaches  In addition, it will give you the confidence that what you are doing if you do it right, is well within legal perimeters.

They were also cutting small trees around the perimeter of the property for no reason. 

Typically any city ROW is on the edge of a property, not sure how or why “pool wires” presumably coming from the house panel, would cross perimeter easement areas?

Out side of the perimeter you have better schools for you 7 month old as well.

Inside the perimeter?

Property records here don't have the exact interior wall layout, they don't specify where sinks and toilets are, but they do have perimeter, number of bathrooms, fixture count, etc.  

If its not occupied, I walk the perimeter, peak in every window, and talk with the neighbors about the property and former occupants.