The market standard is that SFR tenants pay all utilities, including water and gas.

Just wanted to test waters and get into investing into property or purchasing an renting out or even purchasing property and reselling... any advice anyone can give me it would be greatly appreciated

For example, often fire damage is water damage--they put the red stuff out with wet stuff.

People love hardwoods and if they are clean and smooth they are very forgiving about any "character flaws" such as old water stains or cigarette burns.

The saving grace of this home, all the natural woodwork was kept in remarkable condition AND since the home is in the flight path of the airport, 5 years ago Mitchell International came in and replaced all the windows, exterior doors, installed 2 new furnaces, 2 new central air units, basement dehumidifiers, and water heaters. 

I am 3 months into my current 6 month period for water and sewage and I noticed that my water bill went up exactly 50$ and my sewage bill went up exactly 50$ so obviously they are hiding a rent hike in my Bill's.

You mention doing your own maintenance and Repairs and capital improvements (roof, windows, furnace, water heater, etc). 

Still need to account for roof 25 year life span, appliances and hot water heater 12 year life span,hvac 20 year life span, bath and kitchen remodel 20 year life span.

Management that can't keep the water pressure up or service on, or trash picked up.  

I’ve updated windows, doors, instant hot water heater, roof, ac, bathroom, and flooring.