I'm planning to start an LLC but I'm wondering if I should wait until I have 100% chosen my market so I use the state of that market? 

As others have stated, your fit & finish goals should be guided by whether you plan to:1) Rent: tenants don't always take care of a property, so you want to use lower-grade materials and workmanship.2) Flip: higher quality on workmanship and materials is usually required.Regardless, you always want to "Maintain to the Neighborhood".

As long my refi goes through ok I think I'd like to hold onto the BRRR and be more careful about what I get into next.

Set a clear budget, research properties carefully, and keep growth potential in mind as you plan.Good luck!

Secondly when I was more involved with CA RE in the LA basin. 

I'd add a late fee to the lease renewal, but if they are struggling to pay rent now, when the baby comes, they will be down one income for a bit and then have child care, so will likely have more problems. 

I would be very careful with a contractor demanding a deposit before they start work.

I took a few years out of work to take care and spend time with a family member whp passed, so I have only been working for a year now.

The Texas method is you buy where you buy and you don't care because the CASH FLOW IS THERE.  

Confirm fireplace has been cared for as part of your quarterly inspection.