I know there are services that provide proof of funds but I view that as misrepresentation. 

you can always call or email the tenant in regards to this matter. i personally smoke as well and just would want my tenants happy and not feeling accused as its a big problem with a lot of tenant v landlord situations around the country. you can always say you got a report of the odor of weed and was just verifying the smell with both tenants on the property. you can restate your conditions with smoking. you can always ask if they are legally able to do so as well (meaning medical card). depending on how you want to handle it, if you want to make it a legal warning to the tenant as well, you should write a written letter sent by mail stating you got a report of weed and this is a written warning in case this a problem down the road, you have evidence to show the court if it gets to that matter that this is not your first occurrence. best of luck!

My advice without even hesitating, I wouldn't rent anything that doesn't cash flow and provide a good cash-on-cash return out the gate.

Finding a good PM will cover your concerns on managing the rental from OOS and a good agent should be able to provide you with their network of deals, including on and off market opportunities. 

I can provide you with some CPA and lawyer references that support real estate investors.

Paying off the mortgage can provide peace of mind and simplify retirement, while keeping the debt allows you to leverage your funds for higher returns through investments.

Is her goal to be nice and provide some of the gains or reduce her taxes by trying to split income between her and her ex?

Just like professional athletes who still work with coaches to hone their skills, a real estate mentor or coach can provide you with valuable insights, shortcuts, and strategies that can help you avoid mistakes and fast-track your success.

A platform that updates their data daily or weekly is covering a staggering cost in order to provide that to the end user.

I usually provide our budget as well with totals spent.