Then, be aggressive about negotiating with the seller two options:1) Property vacant at close - you pay original agreed price2) Property NOT vacant at close - you pay orig price LESS an aggressive amount based upon above.Great advice - you should be embarrassed about how low the offer is you make!

I would appreciate any advice on figuring out what we could charge for rent so that we can decide if selling or renting is our best option. 

You may also consider looking for lease with option to own opportunities, for the same reason; lower your down payment- then use the leasing period to build up what you need to exercise the option to purchase. 

Getting a partner is your only option.

Hey @Chad Nassar,I would be happy to look into your options for you.

Or if the person you're working with is a broker, and the original lender doesn't offer that option, they can take your file to another investor.

Despite diligently analyzing Zillow and MLS properties, viable options seem limited.

1st, good tenant, didn't want to ditch but only option for me was either evict (at Christmas) or figure out temporary lodging.

If so, it really does open up your options as you would most benefit from a CPA who specializes in real estate.

What would be my safest option here?