A Thorough title search includes written inquiry to the code enforcement dept (and utilities, etc) in order to uncover any existing but unrecorded code violations.  

Utilities, property management, taxes? 

The land use is residential duplex on the property assessor records meaning the property is legally grandfathered as a duplex as it has two separate utility records for gas and electric historically. 

Should I look to install solar panels to help offset the cost of utilities, either in the shared space (hallway lights) or across all units? 

All utilities are turned off.

@Harjeet Bhatti I don't mind utilizing a certain amount and covering the rest out of pocket.  

Total Cash: $36,000 1% Rule = 1.49%Monthly rents: $2,200Monthly exp:Taxes $220Ins $120Lawn $42 (5 months @$100)Util $200Mortg $646 Maint $154 (7%)Mgr fees $176 (8%)Vacan $110 (5%)Cash flow: $532 What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?

Both of my kids are big into sports and I also enjoy playing sports.

Additionally, you would need to check if the "market rent" you are referring to includes or excludes utilities. 

Hi,On a 8-plex we are offering on, the seller utilized a 5% cap rate with existing NOI(30k) to arrive at 600k purchase price.