We will be relocating to our new primary in about 2 months.We are installing a security camera system for the property. 

Additionally, I have done a good job finding property taxes and market rent for these properties but not as much luck with water, electric, and garbage.

I love the look of some of those paneling systems but they not only can they be costly to buy, they are costly to install. 

.  :-)Also, you didn't ask, but I have another piece of advice, before buying anything, check the flood plains and don't buy a "down house"--a house where the property slopes toward the house as you'll always have water problems.Good luck!

Once you get your systems set up and have a good worker your life should also be simpler.

I know silly but its the law .. do look up the foreclosure rescue laws in CA I know they are there @Sean OToole  knows them by Heart.Now also the loan with Quit claim is totally illegal I know its done but anyone complains and your in hot water that is circumventing the borrowers right to cure.. so forget that one.also if there is no junior  debt and its a California trustee sale its probably going to sell for at least 75 to 80% of ARV so figuring no sales cost no fix up work.. that could be his best bet let it go to sale get the MASSIVE overage tax free and move on.. depending on your financial capacity I did this in Oregon 10 years ago.. and before the laws changed .

Find a mentor of someone to chat with that will assist you in finding   a system that works for you...call me if you wish more then willing to share what I have learnt.

Since the tenents don't have a lease - When I present them with a lease and they do not want to sign it how much time do I need to give them in order vacate premises.3. there is only one meter for both the water and electricity for each building (totalling 2) - Can I have the tenents pay for the electric by splitting the bill in half?

Treating each situation (Caring) different is what gets lenders in hot waters with the regulators.

I would like to echo others about Cozy I really enjoy their system and they are truly continuing to make their product more feature rich.