[recycled sixtie]

From the accounting courses I have done, it is essential that you know what the other partner is doing. You are making moves to be more assertive, that is autopay for fixed expenses and your two signatures on the cheques. It is essential that u understand each other because disagreements can occur. My wife and I are partners in a condo we rent out. Our rent goes in a joint account, all expenses/tax deductions go in one envellope. It is unfortunate that u have to have a partnership to make a go of it. If you had 2-3 houses each instead of 5 between u, administration on a one owner basis would be a lot simpler. Sorry to be so negative about partnerships and I don't want to sew any seeds of doubt in your mind. I tend to be a loaner in this regard. Access to all accounting books/software should be available to both of u.
If you don't understand the accounting/admin. side,
take a course so u can understand it.