I am new to Real Estate.I am currently overwhelmed with the options available and which step I should take first.I am an entrepreneur and Accountant and all I keep thinking is "what's the problem so I can present a solution?"

You get potential cash flow, tax shelter and appreciation.

Account Closed  Are you suggesting don't use contract? 

Does anyone have a good accountant they can recommend for Sarasota or Bradenton, FL?  

Hey Account Closed, glad to have you here!

HOA, special taxes, and such...just made for a buz kill!

Account Closed  This sounds like a very simple question but actually it's not.

An exception for water may be a duplex situation where there might be one meter for two units and thus the landlord MIGHT keep the water in their name and bill the tenants.Cost of trash pickup is dependent on the particular area (we pay for it as it is added to your yearly taxes).Utility responsibilities are discussed with applicants during their walk through. 

With that type of financing you would only pay about 31/2 percent down paymentDepending on your financial situation you might want use an Attorney and/or a tax attorney to give you advice when you know what you are investing in.  

@Bill WilliamsNew Mexico is one of about 9 states that has a Community Property right between married couples, which includes ( as I understand it), as stated previously, the home acquired prior to marriage belongs to the individual, not both of you; hence she would have the freedom to sell or mortgage that home anytime, without your consent involved.Any income earned from such a separate property belongs to the individual, but if you choose to share bank accounts and 'commingle' funds, and the house is sold, those proceeds placed into a joint account become community i.e. both of your funds.Community property is acquired by either spouse during marriage, and selling or  encumbrance requires both of your signatures.