I wonder how involved would I still have to be if I hired representation?

@Mary Lopez I was wondering if you ever found someone.

We're wondering about various what-if's though, such as what if the people tear up the place, what if we don't want to rent to someone in particular due to references or credit or pets, etc.

I'm very concerned about this and wonder how it will affect real estate in CA.

If your reasoning is that you can just use that as a rental while you buy something else (which makes me wonder about your reasoning regarding down payments and closing costs, you're going to have those on the new home you buy), that's not a good reason to turn something into a rental. 

The wonderful thing about furnished finder, which is what I assume you are using, is that you can book a property without being there to show the place.

Depending on the zip code I was wondering could I gamble with them on a fix and flip or brrr.

Landlord shall be responsible for paying any Homeowners Association(HOA) dues and property taxes for the Property.I was wondering if I should add a additional rent clause for the sewer just so I have my base covered in case tenant try to get "smart" with the lease.I think you're fine if that's in your lease to bill them.

I'm a local agent, and I tend to work with investors and investment property, looking to take on more, so i was calling on your property _____ and was wondering , HOWS IT GOING? 

it's a lower risk way to get started.Yea I’m looking for an opportunity to buy a property now, just wondering if I actually have to live in the house.