Hi @Diana K. it's unfortunately a very common problem for out-of-state investors in Detroit.

The tools commonly talked about on BP aren't enough to figure that out, so you'll have to get a bit more advanced.  

Super common.

Google Search for @Dave Foster and Tenants in Common.

It is not uncommon for borrowers to have property deeded as tenants in common, so lenders will be familiar with this arrangement.

. :-)This other thing I've seen this twice so it must be common......handcuffs or shackles bolted to the walls.....

This seems very incorrect to me as the property would be a capital asset with depreciation deductions taken over years, yet the agent insists that he is correct and that this is a common practice for RE pros.I trust the agent but just think he is ill-informed and/or missing further details regarding his proposal, though I am open to the possibility that I may be missing something as well.Can anyone shed any light to help bridge the gap here  ? 

With the small multi the common areas and some utilities, and trash  are my time and cost. 

. -  it’s really quite common for people to use terms incorrectly (I know i have!).  

From there, it is my understanding you can only then right off the portion of common bills tied to the rental area.