You want them to return legal possession of your property to you asap.

I don't think anyone brought up the issue of possession.

There's pros/cons to both..definitely talk to a lawyer for your personal situation and comfort level.As many have said here - your best bet might be to look into trusts (although there's some complications there as well) and taking possession as LLC will limit your lending options initially.If you're just getting started, consider taking it in your personal names and look into good insurance.  

if you give notice to the tenant to cancel the month to month can the landlord take possession in 30 days from notice>

When you finally take possession give them your contact information for emergencies and let them know your planning on a walk thru in the next week.

If it is not in writing the Lease is automatically a Month to Month Rental Agreement.When we evict someone we are actually evicting not just a tenant but anyone who is in POSSESSION of the house.I’m sure most of you have seen the movie Pacific Heights.

For better or worse, I know modular owners who sell homes + land to people in much the same way, and simply evict and retake possession if (when) the renter/lease to own'er defaults on payment. 

These were extreme hoarder homes with the seller in possession after I closed and I had to evict.. and or one I had to sue for specific performance and that took 2 years then another 6 months and I finally had a sherrif lock out.. and all their possesions were there and the sherrif locked it up..

If they don't remove it, you can throw it out and you are protected.Alabama has extended redemption rights that are tied to when the investor takes possession of the property, not the tax sale date.  

I am in possession of last months rent.