It had been on the MLS for awhile with no interest due to some glitch in the system where it would not show up.

The credibility you are talking about is just you implementing your systems and maybe a letter stating rent is due when it is due and that late fees will always apply going forward.  

Part of this is that if something catastrophic (but not total loss) happens, I don't want an insurance company telling me how much they will/won't pay based on the age of my systems. 

But I have 2 other rental properties, 2 schedule C businesses, and bank accounts and credit cards to match, and I want to be able to import transactions and manage everything all in one place, instead of having a completely separate spreadsheet based bookkeeping system for the house I live in. 

The larger properties in the 100s of unit range tend to be owned by larger companies who have developed systems to maximize returns over the long run. 

I used Dave Ramsey’s system to pay it all off and let me tell you, that was not a fun 3 years.

Here is an article that I found on the Veteran's United website because I am trying to do the same thing:https://www.veteransunited.com/valoans/va-rehab-loans/The article states:"Here's what you can do:Repair or add new windows, doors, or sidingRepair or add new roof or guttersInstall new HVAC systems or water heatersImprove insulationWeatherizeTreat mold, lead paint, or moldMake updates to improve energy efficiencyRepair or replace the flooringRepair or replace electrical or plumbing systemsAccessibility updatesIn general, the project has to improve the property's livability and value and must become a permanent part of the home."

Then, once you have your systems down, you can expand to other markets further away. 

There is still a balance of $255 that has not been deducted.Thing is not only was the damage done but the landlord left the tenant without heat or lights for 5 days, with power still surging into the house system. 

Once you get used to dealing with everything over the phone and setting up systems then you can do anything anyone local can do.