Aloha @David Dong,   I would contact the Hawaii DCCA - Consumer Protection Office at eight o eight five eight six two six three four to get some guidance and ensure you don't violate any Hawaii Laws in securing your property and handling the tenants deposit. 

I don't know what I need to do to legally protect myself and I certainly don't want to be in a potential squatter situation. 

I can now buy a property anywhere and remotely control almost every aspect of it to protect it or even rent the apts out without necessarily being there, by opening locks remotely, etc.Something to think about!

Greater consumer protection has been achieved by Property Code Section 5.061, the SAFE Act, and Dodd-Frank, but these measures have also had the effect of raising closing costs, particularly if an RMLO intermediary agent is involved.

A one year lease protects the tenant not the LL.

Offer based on conservative numbers and decently high cap and you’ll be protected and make some money.

Far too many appraisers rush things or play it overly safe to protect themselves and the lender, which is understandable. 

Hi @Catie Lawrence, I'd recommend asking your RE attorney or title company of choice if they can provide you with the RPCDisc (Residential Property Condition Disclosure OR Disclaimer), LBP (Lead Based Paint Disclosure) form, and the gov' pamphlet usually called "Protecting Your Family from LBP".  

It's purpose is to protect our interests and also to set some expectations for the guests.Learn about Credit card charge backs. 

The lease that's in place is in effect as a month-to-month so the protections still apply for landlord and tenants, which is good.