If pressed, tell the writer that since he/she assumes the right to tell you/us what we should do (as a third party...having absolutely no connection to this), that must in turn give you/us the right to tell him/her to also take no income and receive no relief in expenses equal to what he/she says you/we should be taking.The tenants are just as responsible for making the payments to retain their homes, as REI are for making the payments needed to provide them these homes.Since in his/her own words, these tenants "deserve a place to live", why not put their money where their mouth is...and provide them all a place to live in his/her home...for free of course.As a noted scholar of many decades once said, "what a maroon" 

A 50% split of the cancellation fee would've been a better compromise in my opinion, but I'm much happier to be getting 25% than nothing.

No one is happier than a dog :)

If the other roommates feel unsafe (is he foaming at the mouth, carrying a revolver?)

Since this is your first one, use one that has a good 'word of mouth' rating - do your DD to ensure they are competent. 

But please do not put words in my mouth while I am quoting your words. 

I believe for the tax involved maybe I'd be just as well of to give Uncle Sam his money as much as that leaves a really bad taste in my mouth. 

This is probably a good question to ask my lender, direct from the horses mouth, haha.Cheers

Employees can be productive and happier working from home.2.

We couldn't be happier that a new family can start making memories here.