On another note, you have some fairly restrictive laws regarding private lending, consumer protection (seller financing to an owner occupant) and loan servicing in CA state so make sure you are allowed to do this on your own and understand the licensure requirements to lend, broker loans, and service them as well.

Consumers can already hire agents at discounted rates.

I'd start small and think about the least time-consuming and the lowest-risk strategies considering your busy work schedule/ lack of bandwidth to take on an additional job which is basically what real estate investing needs to be in order to be successful. 

Do you provide consumables (toilet paper, coffee, paper towel, etc.) for your clients or do you set aside money for to replenish?

I have a management firm that has filed the necessary paperwork and received a judgment, but it is apparently a time consuming process to then get a writ of restitution and then to schedule the sheriff to evict.

Id line up these steps.1. consume education through books and podcasts.

Contact the Federal Trade Commission and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. 

A set price per unit doesn't make sense to me because the finishes in a C class unit in a modest market versus a B class unit in a more upscale market could be MILES apart and cost VERY different amounts to repair/replace. 3.

While we are not truly concerned with making it someones dream home, we do want it to be smooth/safe with a modest level of eye appeal and without a massive time or money investment.

Unless you can find somebody that isn’t concerned about all the regulations surrounding consumer loans … not suggested.