Are there any resources that help explain what type of terms we should ask for?

What type of neighborhoods are your SFRs in currently?

That type of property is ideal. 

Type up your scope of work.

If a property of similar bedrooms, bathrooms, type, and square footage has sold within the last six months, that is a comparable sale.

A lot of newer investors want to get started in Real Estate and then turn the riskiest type of investment. 

Walking through, I can see that owner is the type that spares little expense with his own properties. 

Both of those could put an investor where you are today - unfortunately.I can tell you that I believe I've avoided these types of issues from happening on my deals because I joined coaching programs and had mentors.

Has anyone been in a similar position, or has had success offering this type of agreement to a previous owner of a property who has not yet voluntarily vacated?

Neighborhoods to invest in is a more subjective topic as that is often dependent on the type of investment you're interested in, your price point and even the type of tenants, if that's the route your going,  that you are trying to attract.