Then I'll have a true success story to brag (modestly) about and hopefully inspire others coming after me.. 

Tax implications can always be mitigated by a good tax professional.

I agree, you need an attorney and a tax professional on board with you.

Instead, think respectful and professional interactions, open and honest communication, prompt response to tenant needs, establishment of good property management systems, and customer service. 

Remigo - I'm not a professional, so can't say for certain, but I'd think central CT hasn't enjoyed the same upward movement that Fairfield county has seen over the last several years. 

Hi friends,  purchased my first rental in may this year, got it rented in mid June, signed a 12 month contract with tenant, about a week ago tenant sent me an 'official' email that there is a mice/rat problem, although there were cheaper options I went with professionals who were charging me 7-8x only because this is a long term investment and I wanted to get it solved, the pest professionals sealed the attic and set traps, they followed by couple of times to remove traps and refill bait boxes, my tenant now sent me lease termination letter citing health concerns due to mice/rat problem, they paid for current sept month and said that I can keep half the deposit for Oct.What should I do here, they have three small kids so I understand the reason for concern but I am also doing my best to solve the issue, should I go ahead and accept their termination or should I fight it out, not sure if involving lawyer is good as I am trying to make some cash flow and not lose it.. please advice also I am from Texas and would love to hear about TX law on this.

I would much rather have a professional that pays for insurance and who has read many contracts do mine than have someone who only sees a few contracts a year. 

Is this true?

You will have to seek (and most likely pay) a licensed professional to work out the details.  

This buyer wants to do his first flip and has years of real estate development experience in his professional day job.