Tenants breaking lease

[Ed Kelly]

Out of the blue, my tenants bought a house and want to break our lease 7 months early.  They are aware that I have a regular job and am just a guy renting a house I own.  

Had they told me months ago, before school started, no issue.  However it is now October, I have a trip scheduled in 2 weeks, and it is my busy season at work.

I showed the house 6 times in the last 2 weeks and they had a mess in every room.  The outside is better but needs work.

I am offering at a rent of  $300 more than current.

1. Since they are on the hook until May, should I just use their security deposit to get house into renting shape? Chipped paint and cleaning on inside.  Landscaper to weed beds.

2. Is my increase too much?  My rent has always been higher than most- It weeds out a lot of people.

3. Would you consider a cash up front proposition?  My fear is that the bad credit means something more than just hard luck.

4. Can I hire a realtor and charge them the cost because I am already working 10 hours a day and by the time I get there to work, it is dark?