I find it beneficial to think in terms of what I did last week that was successful, what I did yesterday that worked, and how I can build upon those actions to move forward.

While some issues like filing a federal tax return are the same everywhere, sometimes beneficial to use someone locally where you plan to invest.   

Is it not normal to negotiate terms upfront and change the agreement for mutual benefit?

Simply living below your means (staying in that house) and investing in mutual funds for a few years and you could both retire early. 

Mutual funds?

I personally think it will be beneficial because real estate is an expansion of my civil engineering knowledge (i.e. construction, development).

I was discussing a multi million dollar deal with an investor that I met at bachelor party of a mutual friend. 

If that's the case, encourage those willing to do the sweat equity and establish mutually beneficial relationships with them.

You can let them know that your goal is to get it rented ASAP and that will get them off the hook for added rent when it vacant....so their cooperation would be greatly beneficial to both sidesIf its a good tenant and they are leaving for a reasonable cause, I try not to be too harsh.....make arrangements to get it ready to go ASAP and move on...

I went into panic mode and contacted a mutual contractor that we both use (she has known him for years, and introduced me to him)  He then contacted her boss/friend and he said he would take care of hiring movers.