Proper screening, at a minimum, reduces the chance of dealing with violent criminals. 

I can't seems to properly evict rodents from one of my properties.  

Honestly, your best bet is to actively network, read books (boring and interesting alike) and listen to podcasts to develop your knowledge.

My spidy sense started to tingle at "$500 each in profit," that's a lot and makes me think that either you're not properly accounting for all of your expenses or you have so much equity that your ROI is terrible.

If it's a B class property laminate counters are appropriate, stone and hardwood will maybe help at time of sale but you will not recoup your expense if you over develop the property.

HelloIf I am looking into putting a property under contract but I am not in the state to be able to physically inspect the house how would I be able to otherwise properly estimate repair cost to do my own numbers research before actually buying and/or selling?

You can immediately see the benefits of having a proper estate plan in place for the ease of transition rather than going through probate.

I don't know why the adjuster has already told you the roof damage will not be covered unless you do not have proper coverage on your policy. 

I am a new investor who is looking at a possible development deal, something I have never done before.

@Matthew Pease most credibile and big flippers have their stuff and quality together (whether they are permitted or not I would argue that few go through and get the proper permits).