You should consult with a landlord attorney in your state to get advice to ensure you follow proper, legal steps.

Wow I just had a somewhat similar issue at one of our south side Chicago properties, however, our issues are much larger (i.e, dog owner is getting evicted).I was going to state my opinion until I read @John Warren comment - FOR SURE CONTACT AN ATTORNEY!

In virtually all large city markets it is currently cheaper to rent than to own.  

This California State Legislative code outlines which encumberances will survive a tax auction (see below in italics), and I want to make sure that a Deed of Trust with Assignment of Rents does not fit into any of these categories.

What state are you looking to purchase in ? 

We'll go stay with family out of state (and will mix in some travel).

You forgot to put your state in your profile or your post so people would know if you are in a community property state or how much it will cost you to transfer ownership from your wife to your LLC.  

He stated "My properties perform better than yours do because I'm not paying any mark-ups on my repairs."  

I use state farm and every time I have a property I call my agent and tell them exactly what I plan on doing.

There are case examples of this in Florida, but you want to talk to an attorney in your state to get advice.