The land use is residential duplex on the property assessor records meaning the property is legally grandfathered as a duplex as it has two separate utility records for gas and electric historically. 

Should I look to install solar panels to help offset the cost of utilities, either in the shared space (hallway lights) or across all units? 

All utilities are turned off.

By joining a top-producing team, you will get to learn hands on how to be successful in this business.Just as a FYI.. team settings don't work for everyone though so that's a decision you'll have to make yourself.   

@Harjeet Bhatti I don't mind utilizing a certain amount and covering the rest out of pocket.  

Then, just have your broker review every document that is produced and give you advice at every step of the transaction, and pay your broker yourself.

Total Cash: $36,000 1% Rule = 1.49%Monthly rents: $2,200Monthly exp:Taxes $220Ins $120Lawn $42 (5 months @$100)Util $200Mortg $646 Maint $154 (7%)Mgr fees $176 (8%)Vacan $110 (5%)Cash flow: $532 What made you interested in investing in this type of deal?

I ALSO HAVE A RESIDENTIAL INCOME PRODUCING PROPERTY IN THE HOUSTON HEIGHTS.

Esp if you're not looking to self-manage, a lower-tier prop will most likely not produce the net returns you're expecting.

Additionally, you would need to check if the "market rent" you are referring to includes or excludes utilities.