I have had nothing but problems utilizing their system. 

Service would change, though, as the successful experiences of early-adopter customers would demonstrate the utility and superiority of NewCo.

I decided to get liscenced as a home inspector and utilize my knowledge in building science so I can add value to others but also so that I could immerse myself in the real estate industry and show investors that I am taking this seriously.

I appreciate the input Danielle ...I see some of these virtual mailbox companies have an app and you can see what mail has been received on the app, while others allow mail forwarding ... are you utilizing any of this or just using the physical address for your LLC paperwork to be delivered?   

What are the average utility costs, and who typically pays them (tenant/owner)?

You cannot use rental income above your mortgage payment to help qualify for a larger mortgage, but you can utilize 100% of the lease income to offset so that should help you qualify for more of a mortgage. 

Validate planning zoning requirements and access to utilities.

Add utilities, lawn and pool care $800-1000.

While I don’t suggest that the smaller type investor purchase and utilize “exotic” vehicles like foreign asset protection trusts, family limited partnerships with outside controls, or Byzantine or convoluted maze of ownership entities, the more simple strategies of using Series LLCs, self directed retirement plans, and paying off their home mortgage to the extent of the Federal BK homestead exemptions can insure that a plaintiff attorney never even considers going after them.  

I didn't, and the people at Eagle Rock, who approved permits and necessary utility connections, were not very cooperative, which made the process more stressful than it had to be.I've seen lots listed on Zillow and the Aggressive Real Estate web site.