The city boarded up the house because there were squatters in it and it is classified as "uninhabitable" because it hasn't had utilities for a number of months.  

IMO I don't look at SFH with under $300 + cash flow and generally multi-units at 350 per door due to higher taxes and insurance cost as well as the added expense of Water utility monthly and higher maintenance.

What are the unmaintained/older mechanical systems that may need replacement soon,    How are the utilities /heat set up?

If it turns out nobody is in there then you can hire a locksmith to get in and change the locks.I wouldn't put any utilities for the property in your name until you figure out who is in there and are able to legally get them out.  

. • If you've utilized these companies to learn and build your business?

Hello BP community,I need some advice on handling escalating utility bills.

Are there other utility costs I should be including in addition to these?  

We refinished the existing hardwood, updated the kitchen and bathrooms, set new tile and backsplash, and added a utility room.

Use it to pay utilities but always pay in full and on time.

That means you must utilize your time, capital and knowledge in the most efficient way to accomplish your goal.