I would prioritize finding an accountant who specializes in real estate taxation over one that is local.There are 20+ accountants on this message board who specialize in real estate taxation.

I've read a lot of mixed reviews regarding the safety of the area.

I personally wouldn't ask my mom to check on a unit for me alone due to safety factors.If this is a long term hold for you, definitely get the utilities separated and pass them on to tenants as their leases expire/renew or as new sets of tenants move in (unless you think you tenants with existing leases will sign a lease amendment agreeing to pay for the newly separated utility for their unit, which is unlikely)Please keep us in the loop with what happens!

That can turn into safety / fire issues.  

Pay off debt first, save a safety fund and then save some money for investing - some books will say you can invest with 0$ but you'll likely need some money to invest beforehand.4) Build a team.

I am a little concerned with crime/safety.

My current condo has always kind of been my safety net in case things fall through, I will hopefully always have that cash flow.

This online map of Milwaukee shows all neighborhoods in the county and their corresponding safety values.

Property needs to meet general safety and functionality items such as running water, heat etc.

My emotions are feeling like she is giving me a hard time for telling her that she had to contact me about repairs so I want to tell her to kick rocks but at the same time I don't want to deny a valid request that is based on her perceived safety.