Some things you can test for without utilities on, i.e. pressure testing gas lines and plumbing lines.  

I've been managing my own portfolio for quite a bit and am very familiar with situations where tenants are having issues with a/c, plumbing, appliances, etc. because I do majority of the work myself. 

I am sure that there are better tools or methods in doing this, and therefore would love to hear how others are coming up with their rent estimates when evaluating properties.

Needs foundation, all new electrical & plumbing, siding, roof, etc.  

@Daniel Fraenkel I really like your method for handling out of state investors.

When were the systems (roof, electric, Plumbing, heating) last updated and were they fully updated or just partially?

The BRRRR method is NOT an example of this.The key to doing this is to make every decision based on the number sequence, "1073741824".

Replaced rotten floor joists, brand new bathroom, new kitchen, new electrical, new plumbing, new paint.

I'm in negotiations right now to purchase an existing plumbing business, then I will add handymen, cleaners, and eventually an electrician.I listened to a presentation from a Property Manager in Chicago that had 20 maintenance technicians, a 6,000 ft. warehouse with a full-time manager, and I think three maintenance coordinators.

I am wondering which method I should be more dependent on.