That being said, like most things with being a landlord, if you are a decent person treat your tenants like people, remain communicative and respectful, make necessary repairs, it is highly unlikely you will ever get sued or anyone will ever question if you did everything by the book.  

Is this a service you would want your accountant to have? 

I've encountered several situations where tenants not only broke their lease but also caused damages, sometimes even leaving before the lease ended with damages behind.To clarify, when I mention damages, I'm not talking about normal wear and tear but rather significant repairs costing between $5,000 to $8,000, which don't qualify as vandalism for insurance purposes.In the past, property managers I've spoken to have often discouraged pursuing tenants for these damages, citing it as not worth the effort.Here are my questions for you:- Would you pursue the tenant?

There are registered agent services that can fill this role for you.

As either tax deed or tax certificate owner, you can change the locks, secure the windows, and start making repairs.  

Their customer service is terrible along with their service providers.

Embrace ways to reward their good service to your tenants and you. 

Make sure you use net cash flow, so you are accounting for maintenance, repairs, cap ex, vacancy, and property management; your cash flow might be $500 per month net if the gross is $1k.

I currently work as an electrician and can do just about any repair myself or know someone who can within a phone call.

Hey mate,Keep costs at a minimum.If the carpet is good/new.Leave it for now IMO and deal with it at a later date.And can always not accept pet's as per your lease or if you do, charge a pet deposit and monthly pet fee that will assist with any future repair needed caused by pet damage.We own a PM company and do the same.Thanks