If the result is that I will a bigger septic.

@Rupa NairWelcome to Bigger Pockets.

@Jacob FergusonWelcome to Bigger Pockets.

Hey BP, sorry I've been slacking, and haven't posted an introduction onto the site yet. Really enjoy listening to the podcasts and the wealth of information provided on the forums. I've been real estate investing for ...

But if you are looking to "buy and hold" (or BRRR as we talk about on Bigger Pockets) then you may need 2 lenders - one to acquire the property and one to refinance.I would also suggest to post in the state forum here on Bigger Pockets what you are looking for. 

you can do one of several things. you can include electric in the rent (not always a good option) , you can stipulate, in the lease, that the electric bill is split 50-50, you can implement RUBS which divides the bill into the percentage of space it takes up (for example one side is bigger so they pay 60% of the electric, or the 2 bedroom pays 66% and the 1 bedroom pays 33%), or you can submeter the electric which allows you to split the bill you receive according to the actual electric used, finally you can discuss with your electric company what needs to be done to add a separate meter to the duplex. submeter and second meter are most expensive options, but in my opinion are the best for your long term sanity and profit.

Over the years there's been slight loss of population, loss of a major beer distributor. 

However, I only recommend this to experienced investors that are willing to take the risk of loss, have the relationships with HML's to get the loans done fast, and have the ability to raise cash for closing in case things go sideways.

I'm a newbie and you have inspired me to take initiative and make this response my first post to Bigger pockets. 

If you make improvements to a property (garage or another type of remodeling or addition) those items will also be added to your cost basis and affect your capital gain or loss.