'Despite attempts to communicate with the tenant since December, including two attempts to arrange key collection on the 29th, I've received no response.

Since you're also getting a management fee, it seems like a reasonable arrangement.

This arrangement, often referred to as "house hacking," allows you to benefit from rental income while also occupying the property.

Close on the property then start making arrangements for furniture.

I can now see why a potential mentor wouldn't consider a straight 'deal splitting' arrangement out of the gate, with the HIGH attrition rate (and time and effort commitment, up front...) but this almost universal "pay to play" model only works with people who have the "investment" funds... which ISN'T the VAST majority of those who are likely to DO THE WORK.

FYI we've changed our approach entirely and have lower fee initial entry points to avoid the challenges of long term project based arrangements so we can catch issues much sooner.

I did it, it took some effort and flexible work arrangements, but I started as an experienced real estate professional and my job was lending so I had access to a lot of free advice from my co-workers. 

I would consider tankless for your personal home where you personally benefit from any utility savings and where it is easier to arrange the descaling. 

@Bryan O.Curious what arrangements you have with them.

As I see it my options going forward in NYC are my employer extends the current arrangement, I renegotiate for local package, or get a new job.