Is the deck that much more likely to get termite damage because it is not built on blocks or with posts cemented into the ground?

As you take action (other than spending a bunch of time working on business plans that involve you being a heart surgeon, dentist, & dog breeder) you'll figure out what's working & what isn't. 

I am dentist interested in real estate investments.

And to lay only, cement board is already done.Doesn't seem California outrageous, but I would have expected 1.5k to 2k. 

Just look at the video: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/u6ucp6f4tnfnhsc/aNrYjaL929Would you rip out all the rock and lay cement, or carpet it up?

For example,if they put cement down the sewer they could claim the sewer always had problems but because they were paying such low rent that they lived with having to constantly plunger. 

He refered me to the best HVAC guy.It has been mostly a "miss" with craigs list. but I did find a good pool replaster who gave me a contact for a good cement contractor.

My thought would be your expected return for your aggravation.Being a Dentist keeps you busy.

Deep cement footings, all Trex decking and wrought iron rails - not cheap stuff.

It's kind of like taking a friend's dental xrays to a random dentist to have your teeth worked on.