His average contract value is around 15-20k and his profit margins on these jobs are roughly 50%.I don't have an agency or any sort of business that provides this service.

Whatever you do, it sounds like it will benefit you in the future while providing another place for someone to live.

Unfortunately most collections companies only work with large corporations that provide consistent business.

File a lawsuit against the company that provide the background check and Zillow 

Additionally, commercial properties, such as office buildings or retail spaces, may provide attractive depreciation schedules and potentially higher rental income.

Just provide that with a simple LOX stating your plans changed and now you plan to hold.

Building the right team and assembly line can streamline the process, providing  guidance and support as you navigate a new market and grow your investment portfolio.

At the end of the phone call I told him it would be more than $16k to redeem & I needed to sit down do a calculation on the exact amount.  28 minutes later I texted him my calculation (taxes plus interest + value of repairs plus interest = $20,549.76) and asked for him to provide me with his mailing address so I can send him a formal notice of the cost to redeem by certified mail.  

And since this all feeds into the experience, please don't be the host that ruins the experience by asking the guests to provide all their own cleaning supplies, toilet paper, etc.  

Are there any investors or real estate agents who can provide their thoughts on the area?