I always hate this response- but- you are buying a job.  

You will be responsible up to the day of closing

On one hand, the unit is coming off being occupied by smokers, so its not a taj mahal, on the other hand, that level of interest at the price 1 month away from it being available makes me think there's room for an increase.I was thinking about messaging each person and telling them I've had an overwhelming response and will be doing 850 instead of 825.

In most P&S contracts, with the sale of an occupied rental, deposits held by the previous landlord is settled with you at the closing, and it's your responsibility to pay the deposit back to the tenant.

I'm glad you are finding the group's helpful- that's their purpose .

I wrote the above for informational purposes.

The prior response should give you a thorough view of the options that are available but knowing which one to use depends on your particular situation and how creative you can get.The reason for this is because everyone is in a different situation or tax bracket.

I'm always baffled when peoples first response is to contact a lawyer.

Ryan, thanks so much for your detailed response.

I got divorced in March of 2016, so my ex is still in the house, and I am still on the mortgage (although it is her responsibly per the divorce papers).