If you can't find a "mentor" per se, definitely find a few people in the industry to shadow, at the minimum.  

In CA you can only deduct for rent, damage, cleaning or personal property (like keys or furniture):http://www.dca.ca.gov/publications/landlordbook/se...You also can't have a separate deposit for utilities. 

I think there is an opportunity to do both buy and holds and flips for the active and retired in NJ by the bases.Even though property taxes are high per se (although a lot lower than where I reside) it is all relative in my opinion in the areas around the bases...

That info is on this website:http://www.dca.ca.gov/publications/landlordbook/se...You can use the deposit for any rent owed and any damage. 

@Eric DeVito, I am not a tax guy, per se, so please recognize that.  

@Alexander Felice - While not a "protected class" per se, people do have a right to keep and bear arms under the 2nd amendment, particularly in their domicile, and I would caution against infringing on a tenant's constitutional rights.

Besides, I don't think he's her boyfriend per se as much as a casual visitor who visits every so often LOL.

Here are the CA laws regarding security deposits:http://www.dca.ca.gov/publications/landlordbook/se...It includes info on what's considered wear and tear vs. damages, too.I highly recommend you get this book. 

File bankruptcy - 90 days if the debtor files pro se, up to 2 years if he’s willing to engage a knowledge, experienced bankruptcy attorney specialist.

if its as you state, open and close case, go and represent yourself pro se.