If you're self-employed, the Solo 401k will provide many benefits over a self-directed IRA: Compared to an IRA, Solo 401k contributions limits are roughly ten times higher.There is no custodial requirement for the 401k.You don't need the additional expense and administration of an LLC to have checkbook control.There is a built in-Roth component whereas IRAs are either traditional or Roth, not both.A spouse can also participate in the same Solo 401k plan.The Solo 401k has additional tax benefits over an IRA when investing into real estate using leverage.The penalties for prohibited transactions are less severe, though it's best not to utilize this benefit :)

Who is responsible for common areas inside and outside the house?

I didn't have to submit copies of utilities. 

HomePossible can be utilized for multiplexes at 5% and is less likely to have income restrictions.

Big banks also don't have as wide of a range of loan products available, so it's common that they don't have suitable products for self-employed borrowers.So back to your question, better ideas on financing options....

If you are using an escalation clause I commonly see them with wording similar to "Over and above the next bona fide offer".If you are just going back and forth generally there is only the laws regarding fair dealing.

Any other utilities to include?

Thanks for the Info, for me unfortationally  all my properties are located in the largest county Jefferson County and they love to put out of state big investor companies so they can put the extra money in their account and if you get behind on the propert taxes 1 year they require that you pay the overbid interest amount AND THE NEXT PROPERTY TAX BILL TO REDEEM,That's a big hard ship on the common resident to come up with 2 years of property taxes and Over Bid plus 12% interest dailyBlessings to All

My real estate agent doesn't seem to know who pays the utilities so I assumed I paid everything but gas and electric because that's common in ABQ. 

If they are behind in their utility bill, they are going to be behind in their rent.