Closing on First Duplex next Tuesday - looks like it will be an eventful start

[Nicholle Jean]

Really excited to be closing.  It's been a smooth journey, I read a lot on here in preparation and the transaction has gone smoothly for the most part.  My plan is to live downstairs and rent the upstairs.  It was going to be delivered with both units occupied but when the downstairs tenants found out I was planning on living there they moved out.  Which. . I don't mind, saves me having to ask them to move.  

The upstairs tenant has been there a long time, and is a friend of the current owner.   Today I got an email from my real estate agent stating they've quit their job and haven't paid the rent this month.  We close on the 15th.  The rent is a little under market and I don't mind them leaving either.  The sooner the better if I can get solid tenants in there before it starts snowing, the question is how to handle it?  Do I day of closing request proof of payment for the month of August or to vacate the premises?  Begin eviction proceedings immediately? 

I'd hoped to keep the upstairs tenant but I've read not to make exceptions and I don't want to start with problems any more than I have to.  

Also any general advice on what to do when you close. . my list has, change the locks, clean the air ducts, get someone out there to tell me more about the stucco on the house before the weather changes.  Open to any advice.  Thanks!