@Bill McCannWelcome to BP, and congratulations on making the decision to invest in your future via real estate.I have written a few blog posts that may help you get started here on BP, and with your investing.

In return, I intend to do the same for other noobs/members in the near future.

If you're looking to flip, you need to start looking at kitchens from sold properties in the same neighborhood or price point...if they all have laminate counter tops, don't install granite.My take is to always assume an initial cash outlay to push future maintenance...like higher end finishes and appliances on the bet that they won't have issues for 10+ years.

What you are referring to is a construction policy  which could run you closer to $400-$500/month depending on several factors such as scope of work, renovation costs, size of the property etc.

While I am having a property manager take care of the day to day, is there a nice piece of software out there that I can keep track of this and future rental properties?

We refer to it as a “debt checking” account in the 101 Financial world.

If you have not found anybody yet, let me know and I can refer her over to you.

In California, the landlord needs to return your deposit minus expenses within 21 days.I would recommend any future relationships you have with a landlord be formal and any communication regarding repair requests, lease terms/agreements,  etc be in writing.

I am excited for your venture, may be in the near future we'll be able to acquire a bigger facility.

Good luck with your investing future!