Some lenders out there may be able to offer you an open ended line of credit that you could access as needed, but this is not as common.

I enjoy learning the things these book have to offer. 

I belive would essentially have to offer rent below market rent rates to compensate for the more expensive utilities.

You also need to review the wording of the present contracts/leases as they may have a clause designed to thwart just such a move.Since I am in no way qualified to offer you legal advise, particularly in your jurisdiction on the left coast of another country, I would advise you check with your attorney on this matter before you complete your diligence and go firm on the deal.We have a condition in our agreements of purchase and sale whereby any contract/lease entered into by the Vendor once we have entered diligence (i.e. have an accepted offer), must be vetted and accepted by us before it can be signed.

@Brian Burke has quite a bit of experience with larger complexes and may be able to offer a couple thoughts here as well.  

I'm definitely interested in any advice or tips on getting started that some more seasoned veterans may have to offer.

Learn, study, trust in yourself and what you have to offer and you'll do fine.

Being a skeptic I know there have to be ways to break into this market for those with not much to offer initially.

NOT wanting to over pay or under pay for a property, how are others figuring what to offer?

I'm also looking for experienced flippers or anyone else who may be willing to offer advice.