People tend to waste a lot when everythings included, so this helps to avoid that problem.There are also companies out there that can install a meter in lieu of doing a full submeter to ascertain how much usage the unit is using monthly.

You'll get pretty good depreciation when it comes time to do the taxes.

There are some programs through local government systems where you may be able to receive a tax abatement or grant here in Michigan in an effort to help beautify a neighborhood.

The other factor that's relevant for me is that my husband is a high end W-2 wage earner and we could greatly benefit from the potential tax benefits of actively managing the property. 

Their taxes and insurance may have doubled and they can't afford the house any more.I think geographic is tough because there just isn't typically the turnover any more in most areas. 

I would be beneficial to determine if they are other aspects of the property that make it a worthwhile investment (tax, appreciation etc). 

And you're getting tax benefits.So many of my first-time Colorado investors are afraid of looking stupid because they got a "bad deal."

Don’t forgot to look at all the ways properties make money: Appreciation (#1 way), equity gain through principle pay down, tax benefits, positive cash flow (never as much of a wealth-builder as appreciation is in good markets).

(c) Do any of you have some specific market considerations I should take into account OR that I should be researching (high taxes, pertinent rent laws, etc.)?

Avoid them like the plague.