The other thing to consider is the original owner has died, leaving the estate to his sister and nephew to sell.

I look forward to reading your responses.

The owner financed position is a potentially zero interest loan that should be considered.Another quick note: consider leasing his land with an option agreement as well.

So you can’t use his design without his permission.

Hopefully this incentivizes the tenant to police his friend better.  

Yeah his program is based on using the MLS.

There are a few problems, however.Using a HELOC puts his and his family’s house at risk.

How would that affect his tax situation if at all?

Cleaning out the property - the designated next-of-kin and executor will be responsible for removing and dispersing the deceased tenant’s belongings before the lease period is over.Unfortunately, it does look like this can be a long process and patience will be needed as you will be dealing with an estate. 

My tenant is clearing out right now, and at the rate he has been packing and moving, I think he will be gone within 24 hours.I'm tempted to throw an air tag on his car, so I can have knowledge of his new whereabouts for this purpose.