No matter how many years experience you have, or what your background, there' something here for you.

What are some of the sites that everyone is using to find the background info when you find a vacant home?

(still learning how to use it best but getting better everyday)My website is almost up( hopefully today), got my Bandit Signs ready, working on a nice,specific Absentee Owner list, have my cards, flyers (still refining them), learning the complicated Probate process (which is becoming less complicated thanks to your posts), got access to MLS (through a friend) and the www and learning about the beauty and effectiveness of the Social Networking World (one scary puppy I tell you!).

Once done, are you basically out of the picture and the buyer then works with the property manager in place, or are you still in the background to help out if the buyer runs into some problems?

You really have an absolute perfect background to be an investor.

Thanks for all the suggestions.First a bit of background.

they may slap a code violation against the property on the current ownerThe beauty for you is that you can get a better deal (Price).

A realtor is willing to advertise my home for rent - run background check, credit check, verify income and rental history.

Welcome @Andy Thompson and as many mentioned above, that's a great advantage you have with your experience and background as a contractor.  

Orange County has an unemployment rate of 4-5%, high income wage earners, educated work force, broad based economy, universities, medical centers, amusement parks, event venues, major league sports, and miles and miles of beautiful, accessible beaches.