Thinking we have to cut our losses, and pre-lease for June, while it sits empty.

Thanks a lot for the replies @Chris Mason and @Gregory SchwartzOur lender said we can do a bridge loan but its around 11%.. id bring in 20% downpayment max, dont want to put too much personal assets into it and the issue is for yr1 w low rents and renovations its def a monthly -3-4k loss. def want an 8% or lower rateNot sure if lenders are ok with an initial cashflow loss, once its renovated we can have market rents and its a great deal after. it listed at 1.495M and we'd offer 1.2-1.25M. i understand the living in part doesnt necessarily bide well with investment focus, but for us thats a big appeal that its in a nice area to even live in

Here's a sample monthly for one property:Gross Rent: $1990Mortgage: 1770Tax: 209Insurance: 119Management: 199SO that's about a loss of $300/mo. 

It is a little lower than I expected but I will be able to sell these off, however, it may be at a loss and is less than what I had mortgaged on these houses so I would probably need to come up with cash at closing, which is not ideal.

This could manifest itself in additional damages and financial losses when they decide they don't want to put up with you any more.Also, Section 8 does require more work setting up, renewing, increasing rent, etc.

I’m continuing to put out plenty of offers on various properties and exploring different approaches to see what gains traction.For this one, I’m considering proposing a rent-to-own/deal finance contract with strict contingencies—something like requiring monthly photo proof of bank loan payment, with the understanding that failure to comply would result in a loss of equity of the seller.

Sorry for your loss. 

Should we sell the property when we leave and cut our losses?

There is no loss of use.

While that is probably true, it would also wash out the grocery store where his food comes from and the neighborhood would look like