If they were disposing of her property, she did have the option of calling the police. 

Depending on how such things work for you, you may also be able to write off a pro-rata share of utilities, garbage disposal and anything else you pay for that is related to that rental.  

Sanitary facilities and a safe method of sewage disposal.

We offered to drive him across town to the Humane Society and were prepared to pay the disposal fee for him.

With disposable income, I would: 1) pay off any consumer debt, 2) Invest in any matching retirement accounts, 3) Fully fund ROTH IRAs, 4) Buy rentals.  

I also have private lender money at my disposal.  ...I am not sure how to move forward!  

Great choice in choosing real estate and like everyone else on this Forum, BP is a great community with countless resources at your disposal.

Avoid carpet in lower end as it becomes a disposable item.

Is a pre-qualification or pledge by a lender that funds are available at my disposal good enough for the "cash" identifier?

Also, if he's left any belongings, you'll have to check into proper procedures if your state requires storage for x days before you can dispose of anything, which in the states I'm used to is not required if they sign a release and turn over keys but is if they leave without notice.