Should I be concerned?

Can I cut utilities of the property where tenant stays since I have a possession back of the house?

@Sam Moore since you’re young and managed to cut your expenses.. have you ever thought about house hacking buy a duplex, triplex and or quadruplex live in one unit and rent the others out.

My first concern is protecting myself from fraud, which I have dealt with in the past.  

That was what I was concerned about.

My wife and I are a little concerned that the 'pin-hole leak' problem is going to persist, and may already be more widespread than we know... and the relatively relaxed posture our land-lord has maintained is additionally worrisome.  

Do not try to cut corners here as it will cost you way more in the long run.

If you are going OOS there has to be a clear cut reason why you are investing there.  

If not finding new tenants is something of a concern for you then you will need a way to market your property efficiently.

Did not have fears, concerns is more accurate.