Start by getting pre-approved for a loan, ensuring your credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and finances meet lender requirements.

both have 5yr pre pay penalty. 

Is there a specific duration I should be pre-approving an inquiry within?

Insurance would cover it, I would pay the deductible, and no assets would be lost.If you are in an area like San Diego where people are more likely to sue, a judge is more likely to find you guilty, and the payout is expected to be higher, you may consider an umbrella insurance policy.

Insurance would cover it, I would pay the deductible, and no assets would be lost.If you are in an area like San Diego where people are more likely to sue, a judge is more likely to find you guilty, and the payout is expected to be higher, you may consider an umbrella insurance policy.

Realtors typically pre-screen rental clients to make sure their time is not going to be wasted.

Add the financing challenges and that you existing structure likely will become rent controlled.  

It puts you in a position to learn the market, build connections, and spot deals before most people even know they exist.

I am assuming in this that normal cleaning was done pre-occupancy and they are excessive in their expectations.

As our team has grown, it's become easier to cover responsibilities if someone quits, goes on vacation, or if we terminate employment, compared to when we had one or two homes.