Usually the electric company just switches the name without coming to the property.

Most people also calculate in saving 10% for CapEx, 10% for property management (if you are doing your own then people still calculate it incase they want to have someone else do it later), 7% for vacancies, and usually have the repairs at 10% instead of 5%. 

Traditional lenders will almost always offer better rates so it is usually best to go that route if possible.

Service people usually know about this flaw because they have encountered it during their work experience -- most tenants (in my experience) have no clue how easily vinyl flooring can be damaged in this manner.I would be tempted to leave the floor as is, then at tenant turnover, remove the vinyl and install tile. 

Even landlord friendly states usually have pretty severe penalties for misappropriating the security deposit. 

The plan approvals are usually faster and cheaper.

If you go to some of the local REIA events, there are usually at least a couple Realtors around you could network with.I heard a great suggestion the other day -- find someone who needs things done that they don't want/have time to do.

My strategy is usually if I don't want to lose one month rent waiting for tenant which equates $100 reduction in rent, I would rather reduce that and get it rented and move on.. 

Hey Fellow Investors,I am just starting out and looking to buy a Fourplex with an FHA loan to househack and get the ball rolling.The deal is a 2% deal in a C class neighbourhood within 2 miles of walmart and other usual big box stores.The problem is the utility (landlord paid) is 7000$ !!

The older buildings usually are for more mom and pop and regional businesses.