This is why I always advise rehabbers (per my personal experience) to have their own contract ready before work starts.

If you’re okay with moderate negative cash flow as a "forced savings plan," that’s fine, but I’d advise setting clear boundaries on how much loss you’re comfortable with per year.

I appreciate any advise and direction.

Morby’s “community” needs to be advised of and consider.

Please advise on the target rent $ to be listed out. 

If your properties are all located in CA I would advise looking in states like IN, OH, FL, TN, OR, GA and a few other states depending on comfort zone.

There are certain parts of Scranton that I have been advised not to touch since they are definitely still developing. 

I also own another unit in the same building, and no other tenants have ever complained about inadequate heating.I’ve advised her to keep the heat on 24 hours a day, as the lease specifies that the tenant is responsible for paying for heating costs.

If there are no comps that exactly match my criteria (e.g. bedroom count), how much flexibility is advisable when searching for comps?

I would strongly advise you get more than 2-3 bathrooms.