There is a case "Menonite" which doesn't exactly apply here that says you shouldn't loose a property without actual notice.

They do not consider paying 30 to 40 cents on the dollar unless the past tenant is very collectible and has a lot to loose.

Once the lease is signed, they are contractually bound. 

The problem im having is a few of my tenants are opposed to dealing w anyone except me. their argument is since they signed the lease with me, i'm bound to deal directly with them.

The lease runs with the land and is binding on anyone who may buy the property.I'm also surprised this lawyer doesn't know that any potential buyer will be bound by the same rules regarding security deposits as you are.

So my partner and I are wrapping up the loose stuff in our deal and I am preparing for my Next Awesome Stuff.I am looking to work with people who want to start generating passive income through rentals by helping them identify, purchase, and run rental properties.  

Yes, always check first that the fuel source is not disconnected (or too low if oil or propane).Another odd one can happen on the high efficiency direct vented units; with those, on a windy day, things like loose paper or plastic bags can blow within close enough proximity to the air intake pipe, and then get sucked into the intake pipe and blocking the opening.

I had a loosely defined plan of living there until area rents rose enough to support the mortgage then renting it out.

The worst thing you could do is force yourself to be under contract on a property that will loose you money just to keep your goal.Now assuming that you're looking for a buy and hold property, I would look for properties where you already have boots on the ground.

I STILL hear from my coworkers I'm gonna loose everything, my ideas are no good, it's going to be a pain in my backside when I retire.