So my question at this point is how do I know if I need to spend the time and $$ to file a writ of possession?

Another option is to serve a "Pre-judgment Claim of Right to Possession" form to one of the tenants.

Ask the Seller point blank and in writing, if they have had any tenant that has been more than 60 days late on rent since he took the possession of the property.Suggestions (based on my experience):1.

You should make sure that your lease and your option is on separate documents.subject-to's --- OK, this can be tricky because there are risk here, a subject to is usually a violation of the seller's mortgage agreement, meaning if the property is transferred, the mortgage could become accelerated and become due in full.You may want to consider this contract of sale, subject to the existing mortgage with right of possession with settlement to be within 7 years.Make sue you have a signed deed in escrow so that when you are ready to have a formal settlement, you don't need to find the owner to sign a deed.When you put the deal together (and you understand it), the closing agent will be found to do that deal.Charles

MF and SFH homes typically have multiple bids with various clauses to enhance the bids: Escalation clauses, waiving inspections, high EMD, free possession after close, faster inspections etc.  

Closing will be on the 11th of June and home will be able to be possessed at that time.

Whenever you take exclusive possession of the property, a three year "judicial redemption" clock starts ticking down.

I read on this site where I CAN take possession and actually rent out the property!

(With legal/lease required advance notice.)I am reluctant to request permission to take strangers into their apartments when they are not home, in regard to their privacy and the liability for their possessions?

It will cost you some money but it it‘s the simplest and cleanest way to ensure you get possession of your property.