This is a sticky situation especially since you signed that you wouldn't talk to tenants....

This goes both ways, and it is always true that the proposing party gets yhe shorter stick. I

It's not so sticky, but will look shoddy if not addressed.

In addition there were some minor damages (damaged entry door, broken vanity mirror, broken fireplace equipment, curtain hardware nailed and screwed into stained wood trim and window frames, sticky weather film to be removed from windows).  

I also highly recommend reading the top "sticky" posts on the forums for whatever topics you're interested in.

I know the usual things like cutting out cable, eating beans and rice haha, living frugally but what else?

Oops just saw the stickies, excuse my ignorance lol.I would still appreciate any advice though

You are gonna have to stay on top of them like white on rice to get your money, but make sure you do.

Although this thought might sound like a great idea, I think it can definitely lead to sticky situation between the tenant and yourself.  

I have been in a few sticky situations being the seller and agent on a deal but nothing that disclosures can't fix.