To maintain control and avoid being locked into larger deals, consider directly owning replacement properties or exploring a partial 1031 exchange while carefully structuring syndication investments.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

However, it's important to avoid generalizations.

Give the appropriate notice.Want to avoid squatters? 

It doesn't add layers of physical damage coverage or cover things that wouldn't otherwise be covered.Agreed, didn’t realize that was the sole aspect of the question.

Selling your share at fair market value could avoid gift tax but may trigger capital gains tax for you based on the sale price and your cost basis.In California, the transfer may also trigger a property tax reassessment under Proposition 13 unless a specific exemption applies.

Do you see them as a viable option early on, or is it better to avoid them altogether?  

I would avoid new build properties from southern impression homes.

Buying in a quality area and being thorough with your tenant screening are the best preventative measures you can take to avoid that situation from arising.

Plus I recently got a brand new calculator, wanted to see what out of state investors though the most important aspects of deciding between to similar rates cap rates in 2 varied size apartment. 

To avoid going through the same poor experience, keep reading.Even if someone gives you a referral here, do NOT make the mistake of assuming that the PMC will meet your expectations, just because they met the expectations of the referral source.In our experience, the #1 mistake owners make when selecting a Property Management Company (PMC) is ASSUMING instead of CONFIRMING.It's often a case of not doing enough research, as they don't know what they don't know!