I would use desert grasses to  landscape, like mexican feather grass (Nassella or Stipa tenuissima), and  plant a few New Mexico Privet trees for height if you can find a spot.

The main reasoning being that a family of 4 doped up daily on meth will most likely not want to face a sheriff entering their apt and arresting any or all of them on the spot for drugs or paraphernalia on their person or personal belongings.I do like the sound of that, but can't seem to find any clear 'flat fee' eviction services in this area (Long Beach/Signal Hill) or surrounding LA area.

I personally went into the attic today and I saw lots of damp spots on the insulation above the ceiling.

Has anyone had good success with multi families in VT or NH? If so, what parts?

The guy dropped THIRTY-FIVE percent on the spot. 

Your last sentence is spot on - if for no other reason, I would probably go to court to see the judge dismiss the case on a technicality after seeing the pictures.

I found this old sweet lady.

W2 income also helped get me through some tight spots along the way.

From what I know it's not a big technology hot spot (however I may be wrong so do tell).  

With the option he also may raise objections that you could walk away from your option and now he's in a worse spot than before.