I like the suggestion of shifting the blame on circumstances and an indifferent 3rd party such as a bank.

Generally your tax CPA/EA knows all of your facts, circumstances, and goals and is much better equipped to advise you as he/she knows your holistic tax picture.

Exceptations can be made if you need to move for extenuating circumstances such a job relocation. 

I would be upset with a property management company that made a refund under those circumstances.

There are some good suggestions here already, and I will add one more, given the circumstances, which is that you have experience, and they don't. 

Your idea above may or may not work depending on all your facts and circumstances.

He put in the contract that the project may go over due to circumstances beyond his control like permit delays, weather or illness.

That doesn't factor in the human cost of American men and women being in harms way across the globe in the defense of fossil fuel supply lines. 

This is not the case, there are over a million members here and a lot are serious entrepreneurs who have many other priorities, busy lives etc. which means you have to be proactive, when socializing, engaging, communicating ideas and asking for help.2) There is typical no absolute answer: Everything in life is nuanced and the advice you receive may be great but you have to take into consideration your circumstances, and know yourself.

All our rentals are in C/D areas and we do not install carpet under any circumstances.