My only exception would be a great price a in a big professionally run condo complex with a beach view in PCB.

Keep a positive attitude when faced with challenges, that will occur.Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Is it pre-screening, dealing with no-shows or other?

I pre-qualify them over the phone, with questions such as:The minimum gross income to qualify is $_______.

You'll have a bit of a vacancy, but if you can get the property marketed and turned over quickly, it will be minimal.Do a pre-move out walk through so you have an idea of what you need to do and if you need to hire anyone after they move out. 

Your friend doesn't have the knowledge or skills, so I highly recommend he hire an attorney.Since the tenants claim they never received notice, that means they never received the offer of free rent for December and January!

Get pre-qualified with a lender (talk to several lenders in your market to get the best rate)2.

I would love to know this too as I am looking for a mastermind group to join and help with knowledge sharing, learning, skill development, conacts/networking, accountability and of course fun...which is highly underrated. 

Don't worry about being too strict...we are running a business, not a Pre-school...

Build relationships with wholesalers, agents, and other professionals in the STL area.