I know you understand that, Liz,  and intend to be on site - and it sounds like you have the wits to pull it off.

I also recommend that you do an inspection sometime in between rent payments; give legal minimum notice and take a witness with you. 

I'm at my wits end here.

The tenant's kid removed the blockade, witnessed by neighbors, and rode his bike across the hole, fell, and there was an instant "scare" letter sent from an attorney. 

Dont know if that is legal but nobody saw him do it so no witnesses. 

But I have repeatedly witnessed people bail on the SF & Honolulu market saying it can NOT go higher only to be priced out of the market. 

This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties and supersedes and cancels all prior agreements of the Parties, whether written or oral, with respect to the subject matter.IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto, individually or by their duly authorized representatives, have executed this Agreement, in full, as of the Effective Date.

I've never witnessed it, but if you were to somehow breach the lease, he moved, and asked for his pre paid rent back, a court would probably compel you to return it. 

@Heidi W.,  it’s possible that renting a place and then investing the extra money could be better than a home equity line of credit.

In theory, the issue of who gets clear title can even be decided solely upon consideration of affidavits -sworn statements, but most Judges prefer to question witnesses.