Let them stay at their current rent for a year (better cash flow than a vacancy because they moved out) then gradually work them up toward full market rents in time.  

I am thinking the new HOA will get on the horse gradually.

If I were required to give 30 days as contract states, I'd wonder if it's feasible to wait to month 7, even at this pattern, that way I will not be on the hook for any fees in breaking the agreement, if that's the case (bound by the agreement, even if not collecting utilities to reimburse to me).They've had some other mild gaffes (communication, errant charge for landscaping I never authorized, never reimbursed me the small charge, large lapses in communication response - most recent was 12 days, and they only responded when I mentioned this fact) ... many things are gradually adding up and overall it doesn't look too good on their end.Any suggestions as to how to go about this???

Start easy with something relatively turn key and gradually increase the complexity / difficulty of projects so you find their limits in a manageable way.

Keep listening and reading here and gradually it will start to become more clear.

It's definitely a more gradual process than rehabbing and forced appreciation, however, is doable as well. 

Finding palatable financing will be my ticket.I have and will have a lot of questions, but I'll drop those gradually if the sites search capabilities don't net me the answers I am looking for.Sincerely,- Bob

Raise rent gradually each year. - Maybe bring everyone up to $1,000 and then go up gradually from there until you are at full market rent. 

This is an important distinction to make.A stabilized 20-unit with gradual rental increases and typical maintenance, you could manage that yourself.  

•⁠Galvanized supply lines gradually get filled with sediment and mineral buildup, constricting their flow.