On Friday they came back after receiving the appraisal and said they were changing their offer.

We were given court orders to receive these properties from a reciever free and clear of all liens not including municipal liens.

Seller received multiple offers and our offer was not high enough so we did not get it. 

I was buying rentals with the savings and haven't received a w-2 since '02.  

You have received some good advice so far. 

Completely new to this area and would appreciate any advice:I expect to be there at least a couple years, and will receive some housing allowance.  

You only pay tax on your net income, which is rent received less all expenses. 

While we definitely have four seasons, the lake effect saves us from receiving the worst of most winters.

Me personally, I think the education you are going to receive is going to be worth far more then squabling over how many hours a week you have to work.  

The tenant lease has force beyond your closing date - - in every state.Once you are the owner, you can proceed with various means of "removal".BTW: you should have made that stipulation in your offer;buyer is to occupy upon closingbuyer is to receive property vacant, all costs to be born by the seller.