There is a lot of advice I can give, but start by offering only a few loan types and work with a select number of lenders until you know the ins and outs of the process.

Since you are in Dallas, TX you can go on the Colling County Clerks's web site and get access to all the foreclosure listings every month. 

Tenant Preferences:What are some preferences or deal-breakers that I should be aware of when selecting and marketing to these tenants?

After scouring the City of Pismo Beach's painfully vague website, I've noted a few pieces of information which you may find to be helpful.

See my self Service youtube on our website on setting up self service.Managing- we use Webselfstorage. 

Among all the background websites/portals available.

I just checked your website and it looks like your job is in OC.

Depending what state you're in there may be an app/website to go to and review.

You should avoid any syndication that's advertising in social media (or even in crowdfunding website).Why ? 

I have another one under remodeling that I plan to do as a short term rental (no experience yet, but this house is next door to my home).I have a dedicated website that I maintain myself where I publish the details, applications etc, also list it on zillow and do the screening through mysmartmove.