If you search on these forums you'll find the term "adverse possession." 99%+ of the people who post on this topic have expressed opinions but do not gave any personal experience.

My lease has language stating how much is in tank at possession and that they are to leave with that much in the tank.

I have not noticed any edges sticking up but will take a closer look when I have possession on the 1st.

Am i basically the middle man, or am i actually taking possession of the property 4) Is a specific contract required?

Breach of warranty of habitability - tenant's remedies(1) If there is a breach of the warranty of habitability as set forth in section 38-12-503 (2), the following provisions shall apply:(a) Upon no less than ten and no more than thirty days written notice to the landlord specifying the condition alleged to breach the warranty of habitability and giving the landlord five business days from the receipt of the written notice to remedy the breach, a tenant may terminate the rental agreement by surrendering possession of the dwelling unit.

Under any of these three scenarios the landlord has the absolute right to take possession of the premises, change the locks, and prepare the premises to be re-rented.

First things first, my definition of turn key is buying a rehabbed or ready to go property with tenants in place before I take possession of the property.

We give notice, go to court, etc, and get a Writ of Possession late in November.

@Raven Parmer - The short answer is 'yes', there is such a thing as early possession. 

(Remember, supposed to close on the 19th, I negotiated possession of my previous residence for a week).