So, if substantial completion occurs mid-month, the tenant will pay pro-rated base rent during the remainder of the month, then the base rent abatement period begins at the first full calendar month.

[Remember, "Delayed Financing" can immediately occur as if you've already paid cash, so long as any borrowings did not use the subject property as security]. 

It occurs to me that if you are the only one in town who is renting out housing units, you can make a killing from the lack of competition.

And the seller might not come down to your offer anyways, but no harm in going for it.From there, you will be learning on the job whether it is a single family rental or 9 units.  

And selling it as they are will all but eliminate any tax burden of selling, plus they won't pay 4-6% fees to a real estate agent when selling.Your lawyer fees to set up a sell agreement will be minimal.Depending on your market, after taxes and insurance, you're likely looking at a slight cashflow setback, but nothing that will harm your ability to continue building a portfolio.

Your best protection however occurs before a contract is even signed.  

No harm in googling and making calls.

Would that in any way stop the tax lien sale from occuring or is there anyway to acquire this property.

It just covers the bases so if they go to the courts we bring that document to show the judge they were the ones to break the lease terms and we are looking to work with them not harm them while protecting our property.

A housing crash occurred in my neighborhood, maybe yours is next.