It shouldn't be normal wear and tear, however, you can't charge them the full amount to replace them. 

of them had some kind of issue (some completely minor where they almost didn't want to mention it to what I would consider catastrophic) yet 100% of them would recommend us to friends and family just based on our communication and customer service.  

as long as its not full of rodents and bugs she just like living in a storage unit. :) Seen far worse .

I believe you have to put cash down within a certain time period (5-10 days) and then no inspection and also full balance pretty quick.

Keep in mind in my market that they are eligible to get the full deposit back - which should incentivize them to take better care of the property.

We plan to do this full time and are committed to generating a real estate empire!

Will this be a full time investment property or STR?

I am real estate agent and investor, and have experience in BRRRR.

If you don't have sponsorship, by definition you don't have a deal - full stop.

I would take full responsibility for the existing tenants.