On the back side i cut off the finger grip wings about halfway to allow the threaded ring to go partly inside the wall.

I would recommend looking into a property management company if you are going to invest out of state, simply due to the fact that property management can be your eyes and ears on the property and would have local experience that you could benefit from.

Years ago we had some non heat resistant quartz and when people put hot pans on it, it left rings.3 - Hotel Linens - Plenty of providers out there for this. 

It's going to be a money soak and large loss because it seems like the principal wants to outsource eyes, ears, and skills and is willing to pay someone else to bring their own people which costs 2-4x as much as having some of your subs and eyes on the job.If I had other pressing business concerns, I would sell all of the properties in a portfolio sale, bank the money and repurpose it, and let someone else do it all.

We could all chip in make it worth his/her while....Please keep your ears to the ground on this!  

Kinda wet behind the ears so any info will help.  

Over the years, I have built local teams ( agents, contractors, property management, inspectors) that serve as my eyes and ears. 

My phone rings once in a while, like twice a week. 

That will keep your phone from ringing off the hook for a while.

Lenza leave the ring with a little hope and dignity left.