If you start doing this professionally, you will eventually need to either be the managing broker or hire one on staff. 

Using Google Streetview (image capture 07/2022) to virtually drive the block, shows 5 vacant properties, one of which is significantly fire damaged.

I’d maybe start with, I agree with $x amount even though you missed the deadline but expect the rest returned to me within x days, or I plan to contact tenants rights group to help me seek all damages allowed.

We have no clue where to get started though.

Even the fire pit in the evening with a fire burning might be nicer than the plain shot from the front.  

You and or a contractor can try to make it one (and it might work) but you're playing with fire. 

You could also start with a Master Lease  to get your cash flow going. 

Just a tip: make sure you go into it with an experienced brokerage who really know their way around.I’ve personally been helping international investors get into the Dubai scene and work with experienced local companies that handle everything from start to finish. 

Does anyone have any ideas where to start.  

Do we pay ourselves as 1099 contractors or start reimbursing ourselves for the initial capital we invested?