Both structures have their separate utility meters.The main house was leveled in 2003 so that will need to be taken care of; 4.5k. 1.5k for drywall repairs after the house is leveled. 

I am looking to move and get started as soon as possible, and figured that with a resource like Bigger Pockets I should utilize it. 

My old pricing was $2100 for a year lease, and $2300 a month for a min of 3 months both will all utilities included.

I paid some of the cost like utilities out of my monthly income. 

These retirement plans follow all the normal rules, but allow you to invest in what is called "Alternative Investments" these are not your common stocks, bonds and mutual funds.

I am looking to install a surveillance system for the perimeter of the home that will have audio recording.  Someone who was going to quote me a price told me its illegal in NJ to do audio on an investment property......

That 50% number includes things like maintenance/repairs, advertising, property management, water/sewer, utilities, vacancy, and yes, taxes and insurance. 

The two renters should cover your mortgage + utilities. 

I also do other bills at the same time, such as landscaper, utilities on my duplex, etc.  

The most common way to reduce closing costs is to have offered $Xk more for the property, and ask the seller for $Xk in seller credits towards closing costs, or just get the seller to pay for certain line items.