Landlord Canceling Lease--Obligations

[Nancy P.]

This is just a "what if" scenario.  We are probably moving back to the US next year.  Currently in US and the townhouse we downsized into is simply killing my hip.  Steps to the front door,  three times as many to back door (to carry in groceries.)  On icy days it's really a pain.  In the meantime,  we have just had tenants sign a lease on a similar sized ranch duplex with a small yard.  (I have a back patio that is 90% concrete, ugh.)  They put down only security deposit,  will pay first month's rent on 1/1/20 and move in.  I find myself thinking wistfully that I'd like to move in THERE and out of HERE.  I'm not going to do it,  there is too much in the air for us just now. (As in we might not be moving back here next year.)  I'm just  idly wondering what legally would be required if I did do it.  I once had a tenant pull out three days after putting down her deposit.  (Job transfer she claimed.)  I tried to keep her deposit as she cost me marketing time,  she took me to small claims and won.  Judge said she didn't move in,  so I really didn't suffer damages.  (Someone ended up moving in a week later so he wasn't wrong.)  I'd have to return the deposit, of course.  But could I be legally forced to give them the promised property?  Can landlords cancel as easily as that previous potential tenant did?  Again,  just idly wondering.  Anyone ever done it?