We deliver our properties free of both (noted as such in the lease) and then contractually make the tenant liable for prevention/termination. 

In other words, I already have a checking and savings with BoA, but I would create a 2nd savings account (within my regular account) and put all the rental properties last months and security into that account (combined).Is this the correct way to prevent co-mingling of funds, or what would you recommend?

Send me a message if you would like a copy of our7 CRITICAL STEPS TO PREVENT A TENANT NIGHTMARE BEFORE HANDING OVER THE KEYS

He said that the insurance company gave him a discount because the materials are less susceptible to fire than common materials used like asphalt shingles and stucco.  

Licensed with permits ~$3,250.HWT standard gas single family low efficiency without exhaust retrofit $900.Sand and stain hardwood floors, natural stain $3 per sf.Paint interior walls, ceiling trim and doors 3 tone paint scheme 2 coats $3.20 per sf (floor area cost includes paint)Click lock LVT flooring install overlay inclusive of prep and quarter round $4.50 per sf (materials and labor)Asphalt roof installation 3/1 - 800 sf bungalow with 2 layers of shingles - ~$7,900Standard porch cap replacement with 2 new precast concrete steps ~$2,500Used stove or refrigerator delivery and install $350New stove or refrigerator delivery and install $HD model specificUse this as a general guideline. 

No doubt; both of my neighbors at my vacation house got "free" roofs from guys who roam around after any storm and document that whatever storm damaged their roof - despite the fact they both had 15+ year old 3 tab asphalt shingles in the central Florida sun. 

Is that process too complicated, yes, but there is nothing in this decision that will prevent a tax sale purchaser in MD from reselling at a profit after obtaining the property by foreclosing the right of redemption.

The best thing you can do to prevent future foundation issues is installing gutters around the property to repel away from the foundation.

Quote from @Fernando Martin-Gullans: Hey y’all, I’m a retail investor with 2 SFH rentals worth a combined ~$650k looking to utilize some of my stored equity to buy more out-of-state properties, but I’m not quite sure how best to proceed given that my interest rates are incredibly low (leaning me away from refinancing) and neither property is owner-occupied (which I believe prevents me from using a HELOC).

Power was shut off to prevent it from starting more fire (or was killed by the fire) and this power is what drives the municipal water pumps.