Time is way too precious to waste on being unhappy because you want more

That's just wasting time and energy right now. 

I've done this on one house in order to cut costs - since then, I've added a meter with the utility company but it's a good workaround for the short term. 

Ask for seller concessions to cut down closing costs.

Don't spend time looking for something that doesn't exist. also in the US you cannot sue the police.. unless its a direct assault on your person. your wasting your time.. 

While $50/month in cash flow isn’t great, it’s still positive, and cutting the termite protection could boost it to $125.

This aligns with my interest in passive income.I realize I am not cut out for the entire REI process of consistently finding multiple properties for particular exit strategies.

To me, signing a broad exclusivity agreement kills your bubble; you're now cut off from every other agent's network.Of course, it has to be worth the agent's while to bring you a deal over someone else, so try and offer something of value like a finder's fee or, if you're flipping, the right to list the renovated house with the agent. 

I have a question and would really appreciate your input.I’ve done a couple of fix-and-flip projects in the past using hard money lenders, but I’ve noticed that their fees and interest rates significantly cut into my profits.

Electric: is the easiest to split, but may require holes cut in walls to separate the units.Gas: gas lines aren't as flexible as wires, but it can usually be done affordably.Water: most cities will NOT install additional water meters on a property.