I don't know how you communicate with them, but just let them know that eviction is going to ruin their credit and rental history and it's going to be a huge problem for them to find a new place.

By selling to you before it auctions they can guarantee they avoid ruining their credit and walk with some cash.

As long as it hasn't ruined the wall yet it should be a good bargaining point.

I would focus on that issue and compromise by backing off on the boiler (assuming taking on that expense doesn't ruin your numbers)

This is my first deal ever, so all advice would be greatly appreciated.Yes, if the seller talks to the bank it is likely to ruin the Subject To deal.

I'm not worried that he'll beat me up or anything, just that he'll ruin my house.

If you make a mistake and hire a bad Property Manager, it can ruin you for life.

I've seen way too many buildings ruined by poor house hacking renovations.  

Rugs ruined.

I was wondering if anyone has any thoughts on ways to protect a LL from a tenant that may potentially pour something down the drain and ruin the septic (i.e. concrete).