Two things: 1, you will be committing fraud if you memorialize something to paper that didn't exist and claim it was from that date.

They claimed the appraisal was independent but I have my doubts.

You claim $300k of equity.

The tenant claims there is mold in the house per some report from the City.

I know some landlords who can make the separation and claim the tenants merely think they work for the 'owner' but I don't like to lie.

They are claiming it was just over a year old when I moved in and are prorating based on a 7 year carpet life.

Jeff,I would suggest another questions/request for info to add to your due-diligence:    "have there been any claims reported to you, submitted to the Insurance carrier, or that you are aware of, during the past 5 years"I would also suggest that you request that they get the "Loss Runs" (report of claims) for the past 5 years from the current owner. 

You warned her about smoking dope, and she responded with a heart, which indicates she agrees with your claim.

However, it is an interesting point since although it's not the last month of occupancy it is the "last month" of the current contract - they could claim to just want to re-pay it at the start of the new contract.

It also tells the IRS how much interest you can claim as a deduction.