Take time to clean dirt, remove nails, spackle and sand, it doesn't take much time to do it right.Hopefully you haven't already done new flooring, if so be sure and protect it.

Figure out how much you want to clean up and lock away your stuff in your own house.I rent rooms to people in my house.

I will also say, tenants aren't stupid-- if they know you are coming (required 24-hr notice), and they are doing shady stuff, you better believe they can clean up!    

Most of them couldn't care less about your success, either.It sounds harsh and kind of gloomy but it's what I've observed in the past few years.Never trust that paperwork will be transferred correctly, never trust that your servicer will make the call, never trust that your attorney will have your foreclosure published, never trust that your contractor is going to do their job, never trust that the county is going to account for your payment right.

Nolo California Landlord's Law Book says I should direct my effort to speedy clean-up and replacement of damaged areas.

I am very busy cleaning up and repairing the house.  

It is usually easier to just get the deed in your name, clean it up and get rid of it.

If it needs no repairs and I just quickly toss in some numbers it would look like this.Examplepurchased for 59,000$25% downpayment $14,750Closing costs $2,000Initial loan amount $44,250Term: 4.5% 30 yearsRent: 750$ExpensesVacancy -60$Insurance -25$Repairs -69$Taxes -49$Cleaning misc -39$Net operating income 508$mortgage payment - 224$Monthly Cash flow +284$Cash on cash return 20%

Kick her out and deep clean the place?

It happens,,, And how nice to hear,, I had a similar type thing rented to a young kid,, but he lost his job,, was struggling to pay,, Couldn't make the rent on the 1st..So I said if you leave by the 10th leave the place clean,, and I'll see how quick I can rent it out..He moved left it spotless so I only had to charge him security dep to cover the months rent..it was just before christmas and but I rented the apt for the 1st..