-Use the debit card for a property account to buy all your repair materials, painting supplies, gas when you drive to visit the property, credit checks for the tenants, etc.

Limited supply of properties, specifically new construction, continues to be a major theme throughout the net lease industry.

I didn't address liability issues but you need to do that whether you supply an appliance or not.

Meaning, invest in the right product (which is the one you understand) close enough to home to where you can address any emergencies, and when supplying housing to people, you have things fixed properly so you do not have those "midnight calls" that people frivolously talk about.

No smoke detectors, no GFIs and probably no grounded outlets just for starters.

If you are re-doing the plumbing/water supply lines, I would suggest that you check into PEX, best thing since romax.

I finally gave up on them after my tenant called me and said smoke was coming out of one of the units.

Housing in California is pricey because the demand exceeds the supply. 

(Your other renter is bothering me with his smoking outside, barking dog, obnoxious kids.)The rates and terms are far superior on loans.

When I did the repairs on the bathroom I ran all new plumbing supply and drain lines to that room as well as to the kitchen.