@Carlos C.Surveillance systems are generally not cost effective for 4 units or less, and as you've discovered, the logistics don't work.If you have a larger complex, then you will likely have a separate meter for general lighting, pumps, etc.

I added value to the deal by updating everything - new flooring throughout, new paint, baseboards, lighting and plumbing fixtures, garage door.

Obviously the deals are the most important, but has been something I have been trying to figure out, so any light that can be shed would be greatly appreciated!

Now that you shed some additional light on the issue I am not sure that this will help.

If you don't mind a little horror,  use a black light.Do it at night with no lights on. 

LED lights and low flow shower heads are among the two energy upgrades with the best payoffs. 

Out of state is way to go for buy hold (with light rehabs).Make Colorado time-trade w-2 money and invest in real estate market with better investment numbers..For on-market deals (MLS/zillow) the buy hold deals, and analysis info are everywhere  on the internet from your bedroom, use diligence period, and keep to light rehab........a realtor can help to a degree, but you must own your own hunt, your numbers, analysis and your offer...i would suggest not buying out of state with wholesaler where there is no due diligence or having no boots on ground will be tricky.. and also suggest not flip paper or property out of state...But a buy and hold with due diligence and light renovation from the on-market (zillow) , and analyzing it on your own is do-able than ever and making an offer on it is action...

However, given my home reno skills and work in the architecture/construction industry (albeit not residential) I see this as a great opportunity for all of us to make some extra cash in the sale of this property as a ‘light’ flip.

Thanks.If you're experienced with the process and don't need much training, there are a bunch of 100% brokerages in the city with light monthly fees and no volume requirements.

They were a blessing that saved the project and they continue to be what I think about to cheer myself up when I'm blue.My remodel investment was as follows:Property: purchase price + interest, taxes, escrow, whatever = $25,910Other Carrying costs: water = $241Demo & Hauling: $580 (Craigslist Find)Water Main and Hookup: $1,890Septic and Leech field: $4,250Concrete, Framing & Roof: $17,406DIY Exterior Paint: $470Plumbing: $5,953DIY Solar System & Batteries: $14,181Electric Wiring & Lighting: $880 (Husband is an electrician)Mini-split Heat Pump $2,000Insulation, Drywall, Primer: Plus "shiplap" style wall to cover fed up drywall - $4,489Floors: $3,327Interior Paint & Trim: $520Tile: $5,129Kitchen cabinets, shelves, countertop, sink, etc: $2,483Appliances: (range, hood, fridge, dishwasher, washer & dryer) $1,679Bathroom: (bath, shower, vanity, trim, etc) $1,448Fence and Patio Cover: $3,900"Landscaping": (gravel, shower, tiles, lights, etc) $1,048Furnishing: $1,518Housewares & Decorating: (many from my house as we were moving) $150It took over a year to finish since I ignored it the first 6 months and could only do the occasional weekends once I got started.