They are infringing on the rights of other tenants and neighbors, and they are dramatically increasing the liability of the owner. 

For vacancies you could offer a discount on the 2015 rents in exchange for an bump in 2016 rents - you don't want a dramatic shock - but $300 less in 2015 for $600 more in 2016 might be appealing.    

 $100 a month compounded every month is dramatically better than -$100 compounded.

But, think about it - rents are up dramatically over the last 2 years.

Or, a more dramatic example:Property is worth 1m.

After sleeping on this, not so well by the way, I think that I am beginning to get my head around one of the most difficult challenges that I am facing, and perhaps others face, when presented with these types of dramatic life events.

Others were tenants who bought homes during the downturn.Rents in the area fell dramatically and apartment complexes were offering move-in specials.  

If so, I'd be dramatically concerned about the 3 year period invalidating your exemption when you sell the place.

It's your first post on BP and you're just so not interested in the dramatic topic you provoked.  

However, today I am putting up privacy fence, and in the next few days the landscaping and fence and pavers are going in, so the exterior appearance is going to change dramatically.