What I've gathered so far, is that it is more than likely a step in their process to change the electric utility back into PM's name (they took care of all bills on our behalf) by the move-out date.

Be careful though.  

At another property with just the sidewalk I let the tenants take care of it, but the liability of these steep stairs makes it too important for it to be haphazard or me having to scold them to shovel and salt the walk and steps.I know in snowy areas people with houses contract plowing for the winter at a flat rate.

Because with an HOA in tow that means your not doing it alone, you have active "partners" who will be taking care of a slew of things so think of it like training wheels. 

Keep in mind that I am selling them as affordable fixer uppers and usually only address any health, safety, and functionality issues.

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

be careful..

The big thing is always focus on protecting the public, disclose, and take care of people.

Some investors think that just because they are section 8 they don’t care where they live, they just want a roof over their head.  

My CPA takes care of the 1098s.