For example:General-Filters (furnace, air conditioning, oven exhaust, refrigerator, and water)-Stove burner when the “eye” needs simple replacement-Batteries and remotes that service the premises-Fan and light pull strings-Smoke and carbon alarms testing and batteries-Ensuring appliances are properly plugged in, hooked up, and used-Removing dirt, debris, and lint in and from connection pipes (e.g. clothes dryer)-Tighten loose screws on all home functions (e.g. doors, hinges, handles, socket -Balancing off-balance appliances-Cable, internet, and phone jacks-Fire extinguishers-Systems operation (e.g. security, irrigation, HVAC)HVAC-Monthly A/C filter and drain line maintenance Electrical-Reset “tripped” GFI breakers-Light bulbs (throughout and at the end of the tenancy)-Blown fuses-Reset breakers in the outside and inside breaker boxes-Socket and plug outlet coversPlumbing-Unclog drains or toilets-Caulking around tubs and showers as needed-Gas pilot lighting-Leaky faucets and shower heads-Toilet flappers, handles, seats and seat lids, tank lid, and flush kit-Sink and tub stoppers-If septic tank present, use RID-X as directed on consumer box-Proper cleaning of garbage disposal-Loose faucets and sprayer heads and hoses-Faucet filters (i.e. aerator)-Open exterior plumbing clean out when necessary (e.g. sewage backup)Exterior-Routine lawn (and pool) maintenance-Adjusting sprinkler heads as necessary-On the last month of tenancy, tenant must perform required lawn maintenance no sooner than 2 days prior to vacate dateThere’s a lot to consider as a landlord.

If you plan to rent it out, the main thing is to make sure it is durable and can withstand tenant wear and tear. 

The govt debt isn't a tangible concern, despite what others state it's future inflation adjusted and scarcity plays that'll make the wealth gap wider and the ability to withstand day to day living as is with strong headwinds.

[List not exhaustive]. 

For me when it came to hiring an attorney it was because I had exhausted all hope of our JV actually producing anything.  

Getting those properties for pennies on the dollar, renovating them so they can withstand another 100 years, and fully furnishing them at a 30 day minimum is giving off some solid cash flow!

Not the one's that already have it marked like us and understand & can withstand the volatility.

, roofer to see if they are getting into the exhaust vent on the roof?

There are a ton of strategies but you being in Southern California, I'd recommend you exhaust every effort of trying to get started with a house hack here than going out of state. 

I understand BiggerPockets has calculators, an exhaustive list at that.