Thus allowing me to focus more of my time and energy into investing in my brand/ building my own businesses.Obstacle: Currently I am on the hunt for an experienced FHA lender who accepts credit scores between 600-620 (due to having less than 2 years of established credit history and 2 accounts in collections, one is completely paid off but remains on report, the other is from school and is only $991) To build my credit I have 2 credit cards, I only utilize 10% monthly and pay in full & on time.

And, your downpayment if using a FHA loan would be 3.5% - I believe the terminology used for this strategy that I've read on BP is called "House Hacking" - Try to search and read some articles on BP about House Hacking as that may be an option you can utilize in your market.

Also, based on market research, many rentals in the area have tenant paid utilities.  

That is my specialty, I work in the sports flooring industry and 99% of gymnasiums wood floors are maple.

The issue we find common is that the buyer wants to pay as little as possible and will utilize the agent to facilitate that.

Hi everyone,I found a deal that can annually generate $17k annually in rent, @ 100% occupancy, AFTER taxes, mortgage, maintenance fees, internet, utilities, etc.Plan: Master Lease Option property with a downpayment ($15K) from a private/hard money lender.

Does the landlord have to pay for the utilities or is there a way for the tenants to pay?

My immediate reaction is much aligned with the crowd, anywhere you buy a $20,000.00 home for cash, prepare yourself for a substantial amount of work.An alternate option you amy want to consider is working with a turnkey provider and purchasing something that is already operational, utilize someone else expertise to grow and jump start your investing.  

That means putting money aside for vacancies/non-payers, maintenance and repairs, and utilities.

This is no different than what one receives when terminating their TV cable service, utilities, or health club membership: it’s called the final bill.