Steps 2 & 3 would be the main contributions of a Civil Engineer who is involved. 

Even if that is not your intention, the IRS could decide that is what it was which would mean that the seller would have lost his 1031 ability since he "sold" you the house when he accepted the first payment.

I think guests hardly ever damage things intentionally, but when you have luggage coming in and out all the time and little kids running around a "new place," there IS a lot more wear-and-tear, scuffs/dents/scrapes, and broken glass. 

I've read a few guides about turning the main on gradually, going fixture to fixture one at a time, etc.

Main exterior first. 1 photo.Next photo highlighting best aspect of main level.

Main St, Fithian IL https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/609-N-Main-St-Fithian-IL-...

Not having the correct ARV and having the rehab get a low appraisal is my main concern.

Two weeks later I stopped by the unit (was passing by and decided to take a look) and found that someone was using the shower and leaving food and clothes in the house with visible intent to return.

If your intent is to scale, I agree with many of the others that have mentioned how cumbersome that would be dealing with so many different cards and properties.

Try looking into zillow/Redfin and see what your potential rents you can get near the neighborhood by filtering the bedrooms/bathrooms of the intentional property that you are planning to buy.