We have a very low supply (1.5 million houses short) materials are out of this world so that will push the cost to build up more and there is a massive labor shortage.

I will be debt free and well "ahead" of the curve per my age bracket so far as net worth is concerned.

I saw on the news that Texas was allowing evictions to go ahead. 

Still look at what you'd pay in rent and at the end of 2 years even if you sell it for what you paid for it and have to pay commission on the sale, you are still going to come out ahead compared to paying $53K in rent...and that assumes your rent doesn't go up again. 

However, the seller's agent may push back - and there may be a fight over commission as the seller's agent will have a claim to both buyer and seller commission because they can claim that they're the "procuring cause" of the sale. 

Not sure your state's requirements but that's a starting point.And, as others have said, verify his insurance should you move ahead and have him do the work.Best,Mike

At this point curiosity is pushing me more than anything else.

Yes, this was also pushed by Brandon's 90 day challenge. 

I'd push the title company harder about being physically present for closing.

After a few days, I have heard from the tenants telling me to start the eviction process and to go ahead with the increased rent.This is my first property and I'm not entirely sure what to do here.