Once you know the reason(s), for the flooding, then you'll be able to figure out a solution.I'd also strongly suggest that you don't re-finish the basement until you've determined the cause of the flooding and fixed the problem (last thing you want is to re-finish the basement, and have it all ruined again by another flood).I'd suggest first watching some videos on youtube on flooding, drainage, groundwater, french drains, sump systems, water catchment systems, etc, just to give you a better understanding on what can cause flooding, and what types of fixes might work. 

Security deposits can be used but you need to prove that they were responsible, that there is a problem and lastly prove out costs related to the amount being withheld.

Im sure its unavoidable at times since things can happen last minute but whats the industry standard for verifying a property is still on track to be auctioned a day or two before the scheduled date?

@George SuarezThe market has changed in the last 2 years because of the raise in interest rates. 

Any recommendations or insights on how to find the right fit would be incredibly helpful.Tenant Screening: Lastly, I'm curious about effective strategies for finding high-quality tenants, especially when renting out rooms individually.

My property manager advised due to decreased university enrollment these homes are slow to rent over the last few years.  

I have 1.35 Million contacts that have purchased an investment property in the last 2 years.

I bought 10 buy n hold SFR in the last year in Texas and Arkansas that cash flow good.

For example, say I am going to 1031 exchange 200k into 2 properties to defer my taxes, each being 100k of proceeds, but then 1 sale fell out last minute.

It is landlord-friendly, and specific pockets have gone upwards of 2-4x in the last 5-10 years.