The foundation specialist and pest control people said there was extensive termite damage and this had been present for many years. 

@Joseph Mah start by clearly defining and quantifying your goals and objectives.

Could I have accomplished what we have if I had not had those mentors - maybe, but not likely.Should you seek a mentor, define for yourself your objectives you are seeking to accomplish. 

There are scratches in the tiles (probably from moving heavy objects), and I'm wondering if/how they can be rapaired and protected from further damage. 

So I’d recommend to decide what the first objective is and going from there. - Most of these areas have a lot of management companies -- ranging from local to national (like Evolve Vacation Rentals).

You have to overcome objection and do things your not comfortable with to make things work in real estate.

That said, I second what @Bill Hampton said, getting a real estate specialist who will be responsive all year is better than getting someone local. 

Are there any objective measures for how much crime and what type of crime is too much where you would not consider buying?

If I read her response and objections and felt that a valid point could be made for her reluctance and continued after I explained the reasons why I want to do the work, then I would leave well enough alone.

Hi @Kat Hussey,  agents will usually hire transaction coordinators, general assistants, and marketing specialists for their teams.