In this case, factor the cost of sub-metering or implementing a RUBS into your expenses and adjust your offer price accordingly.Be realistic about these prices.

If you allow pets, limiting the size, exclusive breeds to insurance, and the # of pets can be helpful in preventing problems. 

I own a free and clear Townhouse (165K) in Miami, rented at $1,450 and cash flowing great BUT, as a preventive action, I’d like to move the equity to a different investment without HOA.

And what preventative measures will you take to reduce the possibility of spread?

This concept sort of on paper shows long term rental, but underneath could implement short term.  

I know there are digital timers out there, of which we've already tried, but are only really programmable in the same way a mechanical timer is but offer the ability to change with Daylight savings.The ability to come on and off when there's low light is obviously of huge value to prevent anyone onsite tripping in the dark.Does anyone have any suggestions of a great product?

Is there a good way to prevent tenants from abusing included utilities?

States dictate that deposits must be returned in full - or notice given as to how the deposit was used (past tense - you have to do all the repairs and have receipts ready to share with the tenant) before a certain date or the landlord may be held liable for up to three times damages, which equals three times the deposit.This prevents landlords from keeping the deposit forever, but it can also come back to bite you if you don't know the laws.I agree with @Dan Mackin , take all the documentation you can and be very organized about it.

Hey all, I'm a bit of the proactive type and heard about a sensor for leaky toilets to prevent high utilities.

Unless it's illegal in your area for contractors to take on work without a license, or local code prevents a GC from pulling permits, the only real disadvantage is that the contractor can't be censored or punished by the licensing body, which usually takes the form of loss of license and fines.