I've tried a few softwares - RentRedi, Innago, and Baselane to name a few and have chosen to stick with Baselane.

I understand that California may not be for everyone, especially if it’s outside their affordability (careful with most of the naysayers, these are usually people who don’t own or can’t afford to invest here) I also understand that there are deals everywhere and one must feel comfortable in their chosen area of investment.

Do you recommend any absolute hard and fast rules to hold the company to or essentially interview them and then if chosen, let them do their thing?

To keep going, join local real estate groups, get a mentor who knows your chosen area, start with small deals or team up with those who know the ropes, and keep an open mind as what you like may change. 

You have chosen to be BOTH.

So, I will suggest to you that you can make this much in rental income and capital gain upon resale and I will supply the figures that I have carefully chosen to demonstrate that.

Imagine a car, you can place assets in the trunk passengers in the car and trustee chosen by the trustor is driving or "executing" the trust.

I've chosen to max out retirement and college savings, but not to pay off my house while we continue to grow our investments and business.

Sophia - Speaking from experience, I have chosen to go through both routes (permitted and unpermitted)  at various times. 

Prior, I contacted the title company (chosen by PSO) in the property listing and they were willing to send me the same documents Auction.com will be sending me concerning wiring the deposit.