This time around, I am looking for other possible ways to facilitate the vacancy of the previous owners.

It sounds like a single family house where you will be living in the house(personal use).Therefore, you may not be getting the tax benefits you think you are.Consult an accountant.I am not sure why your sister would agree to this as well, she is losing $170,000 in this transaction and she faces the possibility of you increasing her rent.You also have to charge market rent or close to market rent or it is all deemed personal use.

Quote from @Laurens Van swol: We are exploring the possibility of purchasing an investment property in Florida.

I personally wouldnt - I am sure you could use the equity to get more than $600/month in cash flow however that would possibly require some work and risk on yalls end.

I'd love to connect in a few months' time (or before if preferred) to possibly locate a property in your area and start my REI journey around October this year.

The key challenge is finding a property that meets your needs today while also offering strong long-term potential, and I’d be happy to guide you in making the best possible investment.

They aren't going to magically improve and start abiding by the lease terms but I think there is definitely a possibility that the situation gets worse.I think that's a good point.

So, talk to as many as possible. 

Meanwhile, gross rents of $1,800+ for 3-bedroom single-families is an achievable figure, so it’s possible to generate cash flow if you lever modestly.There’s a bunch of other stuff that’s worth highlighting—the economy, demographics, neighborhoods, new construction, and more.

Are you open to speaking via phone or zoom possibly.