KFC would benefit when their competitors believed customers still bought chicken from KFC.I do not mean this to be rude, but I must point out the irony.   

If the lease states the landlord covers the utilities you must honor that until it expires.

Once I start visiting builders, sending out mailers (I already got my postcards), getting some leads (first open house was a total bust) I will def be digging in with a CRM.

I know schools, crime, taxes, economy are some of the big ones that are a must but what else helps you determine whether or not to buy in an out of state market?

You must honor the existing lease with the tenant until it's expiration.

Coops usually must be owner-occupied.

This would inform the tenant they’re in violation of the lease and must correct the violation or leave.

In the notice notate the non-approved pet is in violation of the lease and must be removed from the property for safety reasons.Once the leak is repaired I would send a 7 day notice to remove the pet permanently or face eviction. 

Plus, moving every two years must be a pain.As far as getting your tenants on federal assistance this is a hard thing to do. 

Benefits.va.gov below...Assuming your full VA loan entitlement is intact, if you go over that limit then your down payment must be 25% of the delta.