This also doesn't take into account how long it will take to find a long term renter, I have been told by numerous PM that the demand is there and rental vacancy is less than 1%.I am looking to use this home for long-term rental and have found that the average monthly rate is between $1,500-$1,800 / month.

I don't know that I want to invite that type of karma into my life.

You could invite people to a "Home Buying Seminar"

I have received numerous applications and several people meet my criteria.

I appreciate your invitation!

You could invite them to a seminar on home buying. 

With the job, I would recommend looking for something with a large property management company such as FirstKey, Invitation Homes, American Homes for Rent, etc. since there is no better way to learn the industry from the inside out. 

Then we can invite your buddies for their wonderful perspective...I'm generally OK when someone wants to have an honest conversation about project cash flow and ensure they aren't way behind / @RISK. 

Every city has its own mix of 'good area' and 'bad area' thing going on to some extent, but the bigger picture needs to be solid firstly.Beyond that, I think you're touching on numerous different things here but my mind would be on getting actual numbers/data. 

There is nothing more required.There are numerous options non of which would involve recoating the bathroom.