However, they are not familiar with the process of being private lenders.

We have found it best to follow a strict eviction process with rare exceptions. 

Though, this process will be the same for the other state (if you created a CA LLC you may need to register it as a foreign LLC in the state in which you are doing business/holding property).

Ask the manager to explain their process for dealing with maintenance, late rent, evictions, turnover, etc.

Always ask about the loan process and what to expect, as some lenders can operate differently than others.

This can also help familiarize yourself on the manual process before deciding what the best automated / scaled process is.

I don't know the process for putting it on their credit history, but guessing small claims court would be part of the process.Do you have the keys and know that they moved out? 

What processes and things should we be aware of when buying out of state? 

I have several friends that have built with modulars in and around Asheville, have found the construction quality to be great, have found the resale value to be tremendous, and have found the construction process to be much faster and easier.

What does this process look like overall?