Yes, as long as it is explained in the Lease that the increase covers the cost of the heat, but why not average it for 12 months?

Hopefully taxes don't continue to increase but not exactly optimistic about it.

I will model decreasing or stagnant rents, decreasing occupancy, and increasing cap rates.  

If you are starting with a napkin sketch (custom house)  then yes. 

The other is great... wonderful, timely communication and great customer service.  

I am in the process of having my personal home appraised with the goal of increasing my HELOC.

The flexibility of those assets can increase greatly if you leave your job.

Using this service you can see the prices listed by landlords as well as customs offer.

If it is a trade you seek as opposed to a g/c or handy man, reach out to local custom homebuilders, the guys doing a few houses a year,  in general they like to promote the people who do good jobs for them.

As you have allready learned is how to talk to customers and you probably been have known by many people.