We probably put too much into improving the properties but I prefer to have a safe house to rent and one that can attract a better tenant, and so far we're 2 for 2.  

Add a cast iron or aluminum fence around the pool for safety and charge rent high enough to include a pool company to maintain...maybe, I do not have a rental with a pool (above is our pool) but I could see it being quite a plus if safe and easy for tenants.

If you were to purchase a property from someone who wanted to do owner financing it is safe to say that they would like to be the bank on the transaction and bring in a monthly income with a nice yield. 

As for the belongings left, common sense says that it is abandoned, but you may want to throw it in your garage for a month to be on the safe side.

I plan on riding it out in Central Florida.But with the track still uncertain and seemingly shifting west it's still a guess as to where the worst of Irma will happen.Best wishes to anyone in the path, stay safe and maybe share what you're doing to prepare if you have a moment.  

Stay safe in Miami https://www.valuewalk.com/2017/09/hurricane-irma-miami-damage/

Much appreciated, and as always, stay safe.

The whole idea of the VA loan is to enable military members and veterans to purchase a "modest", safe home for themselves and their families.  

A long as you have outside egress, and the basement is safe,  and you live there, I do not see a problem.  

Joe, I do not have answer for the question but I wish you and your family will safe.