Given the trend of populations out of city centers and into the suburbs, I prefer the near suburbs to major markets.As Levi T mentions, this thesis is appropriate in the large scale assets.  

If the tenant got hurt, I, as a juror, would wonder why you had not disclosed this fact so that your tenants could take appropriate precautions. 

When is it appropriate to ask him for a copy of the current leases?

I gave them the appropriate 60 day notice to vacate per Washington state law which is coming up in about a week.

Not appropriate for all situations, but definitely worth considering.

is it appropriate to screen them before you assume property ownership?

Irrespective of local nuances, your goal as an owner (aside from providing safe, clean and appropriately priced housing), is to pass costs to tenants...so you are correct....your tenants should be paying ALL of the utilities....even if it comes as a charge outside of rent.

One more question, I’ve had some realtors tell me it’s a good idea to acquire a house hack using HML, rehabilitating the property myself, and then refinancing into an FHA loan.

You should interview loan officer asking the appropriate experience questions, also ask how recently they have done these loans.

Basically I just want to be sure I can get them out if they dont move on time so I want to file any and all notices that are appropriate.