Does anyone have any advice on effectively setting up temporary battery-operated cameras on a long-term rental property to deter break-ins and squatters while rent-ready repairs are being made before a tenant moves in?

IF plumber comes out to fix repairs before insurance takes their look, make sure to obviously keep all receipts and or money spent on the repairs. 

The property is livable, but I am account for a pretty significant turn in 4 - 7 years of paint, flooring, and any miscellaneous repairs that the inspector could have missed since it was occupied.

Sounds like the house is not local to you, OP.

I would definitely factor in some substantial capex/ maintenance and repair costs which could lower your returns.  

Consider house hacking when rates and prices are a little more balanced with reality.

That's a lot of work that needs to be done for your first house hack.

To stay secure, I’d recommend saving 3-6 months of mortgage payments, budgeting for repairs, and possibly investing in a home warranty.

In other words, I can afford the house with or without tenants. 

I'm a house hacker too, message me if you want to connect