You should be able to clean and do everything you need to do and still watch the baby."  

If you plan to bid on any of the house at the auction, make sure you do a little research first to make sure that the house has a clean title.

If so, when they move out, discuss keeping some or all of it to clean the unit. 

Title is clean.

It needs all new mechanicals (HVAC, plumbing, electrical). 

Repair any structural and all electrical and mechanical.

After taking over my management, it took some time, but  I have found established, reputable people for cleaning, maintenance, etc., who answer their phone and get things done when I call them.

I would clean up and beautify the exterior, to let the neighbors know you are trying.  

The electrical system had to be upgraded.  

I should have clarified that my intention is to use the renovation budget for major fixes (structural, roofs, exterior projects, plumbing/electric) and then I was planning on doing the smaller projects that I can handle (flooring, painting, kitchen update, tiling/backsplashes, etc.) over time.