I use the third spreadsheet down on this list when looking at investment properties: http://www.mortgage-investments.com/resources/spreadsheet-do... It has some of those rules of thumb you are looking for, but is editable if you want more rigorous guidelines. Looks as though that website may have some good reading for you as well.

For tax decisions, this book has been helpful: http://www.nolo.com/products/every-landlords-tax-deduction-g... I got mine at Amazon for much cheaper and an older volume may give you some insight for down the road, but since you are not looking to rent the place out in 2013 I would wait to buy a more expensive current version. Nolo press also has many CA landlord books.

IP