Simultaneous to that, negotiate price reductions to the greatest extent possible because of this extra cost you are incurring. 

Here are the pros as i see it: easy (no purchase necessary, you know the property), likely prop 13 property tax discount, possibly below current rate loan.  

I may be incorrect, but I thought that was not a possibility.

I would find that to be pretty much not possible with a high volume listing agent.

Or at best you overpay and the "designer" buys the cheapest junk furnishings possible. 

Possible add insurance on your appliances with them paying by adjusting the rent or if they are OK with it so if something else breaks,your covered. 

Some carriers require limited water damage coverage depending on the age of the property and age of utilities.I would recommend at least 25% (ideally more) when possible and if you're limited to 10% you should make sure you cannot purchase another policy for a similar price.

If possible, visit some of them in person.

I expect a free estimate from a contrator who possibly would be doing the actual work. 

@Robert LindsleyThere's an extremely high possibility that you're going to eviction.