I work full time in Healthcare IT (software Program Manager - very visible and demanding) so I'm trying to decide whether to pursue a small claims court filing or writing this off as a learning experience on how to deal with inheritied tenants.  

Do not hesitate, to post questions and bounce ideas around in applicable forums.

Glad to have you on here.Advice for this site...1) Set up keywords for your area and interests so that you're notified when they're used and then start interacting.2) Read through The Ultimate Beginner's Guide3) Go through applicable blogs and podcasts as there are a lot of great resources4) Get The Book on Flipping HousesAdvice for REI...1) Study up on what you need to know/do for the 1st step and then do it, then repeat for all following steps until you have completed your first investment then repeat the process and keep learning.

By day I run a Venture backed software company and by night/weekend I invest and rehab income properties, primarily single family but interested in multi-family.  

Also review the tenant rental applications.

Have software that can help you with rehab cost estimates if you're interested.

.  --- One thing is that each municipality has it own zoning regs with stipulations directly applicable to there jurisdiction.  

Some jurisdictions will give you a permit on the spot (I'm referring to "Phase I without the addition", some will not, depending on the scope of work you put on the permit application.

If in an LLC you do need software though.

Money-preserving rule: No matter how good the sales pitch is, never buy anything that day - always sleep on it and, if possible/applicable, research & discuss with spouse/partner/etc.Pro tip: Many times you can get books & tape courses deeply discounted on Ebay, Craigslist, your local real estate group, etc. from people who bought them and never used them.