Credit scoring exists for one very simple reason....it is a proven meter to gauge financial responsibility.

Remove the carpet and pad, possibly paint the floor with Kilz, and the install new flooring.I would put heavy pressure on the tenants to pay for damages now because the deposit is unlikely to cover it.

Family pressure..

I am apprehensive on flipping due to the added pressure of a quick turnaround after a remodel so I am interested more interested in buy and hold to get my feet wet.

I would definitely pressure people to fill out an application on the spot for me to review and be able to offer them a preliminary approval pending payment for and results of the background check.  

I'm asking to gauge the value of forming a marketing campaign vs. just networking with professionals, and looking online/driving neighborhoods and making offers until I find something.

Personally, I like to learn how to do everything remotely for the experience and to gauge the value of having a property management company.There's a podcast called Florida Invest that I listen to (not nearly as entertaining or well put together as the Bigger Pockets podcast) that has good Florida real estate and economic related information plus I get news from my broker and MLS in Tampa.

I'm just trying to gauge what other Californians are doing, given the high-priced Real Estate down here.

It likely is a ground water pressure problem.

Reach out to some investors in your market and gauge what is working for them !