What is interesting is that most of these properties still easily pass the 1% rule and work out well when you completely analyze the deal. 

As simple as that is to do, it's not easily done but you're absolutely correct Ellis. 

While I agree that the landlord could potentially be on the hook for these things, I also feel like these issues can easily be addressed within the terms of our agreement.

You can sell the property totally as-is, quickly and easily.  

Also, all work over $500 (or $600, not exactly sure but can be easily confirmed on Division of Consumer Affairs web site) requires a written contract.

Putting the utilities in my tenants name isn’t an option for some of the units I own because they’re multi unit properties that aren’t separately metered.My question is this: is there an online portal available that allows you to easily go in and charge a variable expense like utilities every month?

A typical mortgage is 16 pages, easily understood. 

@Vitaliy FylykNOI over $25k is easily a $5-$6M property.

I’ve thought of the same hybrid approach as you, but i find motivated sellers get easily confused and need a concise solution to their problem.  

The market is still very hot so you would have a very difficult time finding sellers who are willing to sell you units at below market value when they can still easily get top-dollar.