In the event the tenant is actually willing to sign a new agreement, the original should still be terminated in writing with current management and tenant both signing.You need to read your new management agreement and understand the terms.

There is no way of protecting yourself in the event of a default.

Regardless - your point of networking is also strong, would love to connect, we (Easy Street Capital) are a BRRRR specialist lender in Austin and specialize in lending on BRRRR projects, and throw a lot of good meetups and events in the area. 

We are also open to renting short term in the event of a vacancy.  

Beyond the Monthly Management, Placement & Maintenance fees, all other fees in our contract are IF EVENT -> THEN fees.

Beyond the Monthly Management, Placement & Maintenance fees, all other fees in our contract are IF EVENT -> THEN fees.

My question is, in the event that the home fails FHA inspection or I decide not to proceed due to more repairs than anticipated, can I assign the contract to another investor -- prior to close -- who is not using an FHA (likely a cash buyer)? 

In our Notes, we specifically designate what must occur in the event of a mailing address change by the Note Holder.

If you look at any charts you'll see that Tampa was one of the hottest markets in growth and one of the lowest among those in decrease. 

I'd aim for using the same type of HVAC system for both units and separately metered if possible so each household pays for their own heat.For now, I suggest you invest in a few oil-filled portable electric heaters to have on hand in the event of a no-heat call.