The idea of it sitting empty caused me emotional damage. 

I've collected thousands in security deposit from my guests who've caused damage.

The crash caused significant structural damage, and the driver fled the scene, later reporting the vehicle stolen.

@Dave AllenRecommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

We decided hurricane lane FL was a great place to build metropolis and than cry every time it's damaged.

Their behavior will not get better, the longer they stay the more damage they will do to your place and erode your rapport with your neighbors.

There are also a lot of attorneys in FL working pro bono to go after lenders as I believe there is something in the statute that not only can they recoup fees but they can also get consequential damages.

What happens if a tenant causes significant damage?

This slippery slope leads to practices that harm clients, damage reputations, and erode the foundation of trust that’s essential in the real estate investment industry.As brokers and lenders, we should celebrate the success of our clients.

I hope you or someone is at least keeping an eye on your properties for break ins, squatters, roof leaks, temperature control, frozen pipes (if in cold climate), if you have a basement and sump pump goes out leading to water damage etc.I just talked to two investors in California that have let their properties sit vacant (no mortgages so paying property taxes and insurance).