So here is the scenario....Utility bill comes to my address (these specific utilities are in my name), I pay for them so that they are on time with no late fee.

One other thing to keep in mind after you purchase...if you are looking to refinance the property to stabilize the rate/terms, you will need a 2-yr history of being a landlord to utilize the rental income to qualify for your new loan.

These are people marketing themselves heavily, working full time (and then some) to pick up new business.

Permits, utilities cut off , estimates . 

I rented out the first property 2500 including utility (as of now no cash flow, but property is appertaining estimated value 382,000 based on Zillow and other open sources).

I am torn as to whether it is my error or the GC’s, who now says I am knit picking...

Either of those I bet you could call the companies to ask how it could be utilized.

Have a reputable title company do a title search, if you need one PM also, I would absolutely get ahold of a RE Attorney, offer them a free meal and pick their brain, may take a few tries or some cash but that is invaluable.

Edward, out of the medium/large cities in the nation how did you pick STL and which communities/areas in STL?

There are also Medicaid Irrevocable Trusts that can accomplish what the OP may be looking for, while still utilizing the advantages afforded by the tax code.