It was the 'water master's house'--the person responsible for diverting the Colorado River water to the different properties/farms. 

If landlord pays water/sewer, and with more occupants you know you will see higher water usage, think you could make a logical case for some additional rent or per person fee to cover that. 

Problem with including utilities in the rent is some tenants can abuse it (eg leave water running, windows open, etc).

Water & Sewer Service7.

However, here’s the catch with roofs: if it gets to the point where wind or water can creep in, small leaks can become big problems fast.

I'm particularly passionate about Fix and flips and Airbnb.Outside of real estate, I enjoy spending the valuable moments with family, friends and building fresh water fish tank aquariums as a hobby.Excited to learn and connect with you all!

Think of all the horror stories about tenants maxing out the heat with their windows open during the winter, deliberately running water bills up, etc.

Add another $20 a month for that.Add in HOA fees ($300 a month; shown in your link), Gas, electricity, high-speed internet, water, trash and snow removal. 

I had some minor water leaks and some subfloor issues that overall did not amount to much, but I had to have an vacancy to fix later.

We couldnt have a large hole in the ground fill up with water that we were going to place a septic tank in.