I would outline your scenario to a few local mortgage brokers - with everything you've said this seems like a pretty easy deal. 

In Pittsburgh, where I live and operate, this would be a two to three-month process in front of almost all out local district magistrates.

The front end can sometimes be tedious to get approved by the local housing authority, but rent payments are always timely.

I have attended local meetups so that I can have a handful of experienced folks who have resources to share.  

Ensure the sublease is explicitly permitted in a written agreement with your friend and aligns with local STR laws.

I want to find something local (Los Angeles area), move in, do small renovations to possibly build up more equity, do a 1031 exchange, and find something better. 

They can serve the initial notice to vacate but the actual court filing needs to come from you as the owner or through an attorney.Given you're out of state, working with a local eviction attorney is definitely your best bet here.

I completed an internship in commercial real estate, and I also attended a couple of local REIA meetings/networking events before moving to Northern VA.I was able to narrow down potential strategies, and I figured both BRRR as well as wholesaling don't seem to be the best strategies for me.

Connect with local mortgage brokers to help you out.

I hit up a local wine distributor and pickup wine boxes (wooden ones) they give away to anyone who wants them.