Now that you own this property, the IRA may never be involved in the transaction. 

We have quite a few together or in our LLCs if commercial property, but banks weren't involved and no conventional debt on them. 

I would get some quotes on it to assess the cost rather than depend on past estimates if they did not involve the Cafe.  

Just make sure you involve an excellent real estate attorney to help you with the deal.This is just a thought.

I've been successfully self-employed as a handyman/carpenter since I arrived and I'm excited about getting involved with real estate investing.  

I personally have never bought or been involved in REO properties before and from my research i found very different opinions regarding them but non from people who have actually bought them. 

Both properties need small odds and ends done to them but nothing major, I believe I can do the work I want to on both properties for less than 5k dollars.I have been contacting ins co and receiving quotes still have not decided on a company yet though.

Can anyone here recommend a reputable tax services company (or good individual) who is located in SoCal who has experience or is specialized with doing taxes involving out of state real estate investments?

All things are relative though, because the 1% "rule" doesn't take into account the exceptional year over year price appreciation we've been experiencing over the past 7 odd years. 

That is why you'll want to involve an attorney.