So many variables can turn a deal sideways from 1 hour to the next - i.e. inspection findings, title issues, contracts, financing issues, taxes, dept. of buildings/local municipalities, etc.I'm glad to hear you made it through the challenges, and it sounds like you'll be able to leverage this experience as you grow your portfolio.All the best to you along your journey!

I've found that a good mediator will identify strengths and weakness for both parties and help them resolve their differences. 

Basically, these are lands that technically qualify as Sending sites, but that have issues such that nobody really wants to build there.

This can be a real estate agent familiar with identifying distressed deals who can negotiate successfully on your behalf or a wholesaler.

For the proceeds I have to pay seller I would have to issue him a 1099 right?

There's a good chance the issue(s) you face has already been discussed and answered.Ask questions in the appropriate forum.

However, I did take issue with the tone of the message, especially the part where they told me how they’d be paying rent.For context, there are no outstanding maintenance or repair issues, so I’m unsure what the tenant is referring to. 

There's a good chance the issue(s) you face has already been discussed and answered.Ask questions in the appropriate forum.

., identifying a replacement property within 45 days and closing within 180 days).

I currently own a successful short-term rental in Fort Lauderdale and have identified a new property nearby that I’m confident will perform well.