How does anyone find a way out of the scourge of renting with these kinds of business practices by landlords? 

Initially I had a feeling you didn’t really know what you’re talking about but now it’s crystal clear you have no idea what your saying and you are more than likely just another misleading , Detroit PM nightmare like 99% of the other PM’s in Detroit with all sorts of hidden fees, secret add-on’s who work against the tenant rather then with them so they end up vacating and you guys salvate over another nickel and dime placement fee.The question ‘why’ in your first comment has absolutely NOTHING to do with it I am simply sharing my experiences.

Just open a separate bank account, give it a business name and keep track of all income and expenses.

We’ve been tossing around the idea of converting one of our bedrooms into a gym (treadmill, weights, bench, etc with towel and water service).

Any idea on where to find a builder like that? 

Any other ideas or input would be greatly appreciated here!

Which will bring plenty of other investors and general business to the area.

You have never seen it, and do not understand that tax returns reveal all, and the credit report it just one of many ways debt is uncovered and a LLC is simply a vehicle for a business just like any other self employed business. 

As I mentioned this idea of land flipping has got my attention, I just need to get a grasp of the basics. 

The idea is to truly be an INVESTMENT manager instead of just a half assed “property manager” collecting rent.