Quote from @Mike Grudzien: Two thoughts:1) stay in your STR for a day or two and you'll discover things it needs or that would be nice to add2) use several touch-points to communicate with Travelers/Guests.

Make sure the previous property management company did their job and communicated a change in management prior to you taking over--along with your contact information.If they have no done this, they should so the tenant doesn't feel like a scam may be going on.Just make sure they're away of where rent payments need to go and who they can contact in the future. 

We get just as frustrated because the system is a bit "broken":(I believe the team is in communication with you about your options - just be sure to also let us know your choice to secure the property to deter squatters as cost-effectively as possible.

That plus his willingness to communicate with anyone who asks him questions and his team are very  praiseworthy.

Either way, clear communication with the guests about who’s managing the property is key to keeping reviews and satisfaction high.Permit Timing:The permit delay makes things tougher, but if you buy the furniture and keep future bookings, you might be able to use that time to update décor piece by piece without fully shutting down operations.

If it’s verbal, they’ll need to document any prior communication or payment records to establish the relationship.If the PM is completely unresponsive, they may want to send a formal written demand for communication and payments via certified mail.

Next, plan on inspecting your properties every 90 days; you can communicate this to the tenant as you ensuring the property is in good order and to help you plan for repairs/future improvements. 

To date all I've received is email communications from the sponsors stating the deal failed.

I've built relationships with property managers who have distressed properties in their portfolios that can communicate directly to owners. 

I think communication seems to be the issue here especially with your comment on how the PM is unresponsive.