Trying to figure out best course of action with available options. 

Put a lien on the property(s) they own, this is needed by some court action (i.e. lawsuit in civil/criminal court) 

It's simply factual:  you violated the lease by smoking, stop it, remove the resulting odor and that a repeat action could result in eviction and loss of security deposit.  

Now this is with an uncontested legal action..

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In Florida where I live that amount is the first $50,000 for a married couple are exempt.So to put all that into action, let's say the previous owner paid $100,000 for the property 20 years ago and lived in the property.  

@Chris StrausbaughWhat state as in many states a lost note can still take action - especially non judicial states

By then I expect to have a clear plan so I can move into action.

His God complex and giant ego won't allow him to reflect on the damage he's done  keep in mind if the SEC detects a serious issue and one that could harm investors right now they have the power to take emergency action and shut them down.

Start small and aim for properties that cash flow well, even after accounting for taxes, insurance, and repairs.Most importantly, keep taking action!