I'll connect with you and let me know your impressions of hime once you speak to him. 

So, how do you select a market to work in?

very impressive!

Yes, such a statement is limited based on the self-selected sample size.

Electrical would be minimal when the work is done but the rental unit is empty because you're likely talking about a frig plugged in and porch lights on at night (and perhaps a light or two inside on a timer) to give the impression someone lives there for security reasons. 

I'll use her as my agent and she'll let me out of my lease early.After looking at a handful of properties (not much selection currently) I was able to strike a deal on one at $5k less than asking price, plus seller pays all closing costs, and the unit that I will be moving into must be vacant by the closing date (seller will have to legally find/buy the tenant out).  

I was under an impression that FHA 203k can only go towards owner occupants.

If the place passes their first impression and they decide to apply, then I hope they will look a little deeper, open and close things, turn knobs on and off, ask lots of questions.

Do your own due diligence, but I have been impressed with their customer service and responsiveness.  

I was there working on the property so I think I impressed upon him how I'm not someone who just sits around paying other people to do the work.