If you think the mulch is somehow attracting these pests, maybe because it's wet from the sprinklers or something - perhaps swapping the mulch out for smooth rocks would help.

I've demo'd a bunch and found not a single one that's not either over-priced or saddled with an interface out of MS Word gone wild wet dream. 

There's nothing like getting your feet wet and just diving into it and learning along the way, as long as you don't lose an arm and a leg in the process ;) you will grow so much with this experience and learn to do more due diligence in the future.

Hi All,I'm new to BiggerPockets and just getting my feet wet with real estate investing.

Thinking of trying to LTR it until I have my feet wet, then begin STR during some future turnover. 

In its current state, the grading will bring water towards the foundation which will lead to a wet crawl space, mold and fungal growth, and possible property damage.

All the remediation company does is stop the leak/repair the plumbing, remove any wet materials, dry everything out with big fans and then replace whatever needed to be removed.

I’m in the same boat as you, trying to get my feet wet and build connections.

Have you thought about investing in a syndication passively first and get your feet wet before trying to go at it alone?

PLEASE do your due diligence when inspecting foundations on your future homes, especially in wet climates.