After that step, I would install a subfloor with textured plastic underneath to prevent against a minor water intrusion and go with whatever flooring you want. 

Note, you need to allow time for make sure they have paid their final utility bills too, to prevent liens against your property.In our book, security deposit goes toward paying for damages first, unpaid utilities second, unpaid fees third, and lastly for unpaid rent.

She said that a CPA a few years back did something for 27 yrs, that is preventing her from selling, even though she would like to.  

How to prevent such scams?

Despite the small preventative maintenance and home owning surprises ( hornet nest, leaking AC, sink clogs) it's been pretty smooth sailing, and now I'm itching to get another property.

File insurance claim immediately for roof to prevent further damage that would not be covered due to homeowner neglect.View property, see what kind of work it needs to get it habitable.

They maybe open to a small rent increase in exchange for coming in and doing some small or preventative maintenance.

That is why, if you are going to spend the money you want a good property manager, proper screening, preventative maintenance, and 24/7 emergency maintenance  means a lot less headaches for your investments.

It is possible that the previous flipper bought the property thinking it was only paint and carpet need but ran into a slew other issues preventing a profitable flip. 

Beware of posting past deals (which are considered tombstone ads), as they may be construed as conditioning investors for future investments, and thus, the first step in making an offer.This is a case where an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.