Now, our seller broker does want to give us our earnest deposit check back because she claims we are on default.

If not, my guess would be you’re likely going to have to return their deposit. 

As far as your renters direct depositing the rent, they would need a receipt to show when it was made. 

I have a substantial amount of gift money being deposited into my account soon.

In my experience the seller would require a $50,000 to $100,000 earnest money deposit, with a $10,000 option fee which the syndicator will lose if the property purchase is not completed.

Here are some the things of which I'm aware that I'll need to consider: 1) business property (non-real) such as lawn care equipment, furniture, appliances (large and small), dishes, linens, tools used in the care of the property; 2) transition of internet presence and accounts (website hosting, domain name, social media, 3rd party booking sites - anything else); 3) deposits already received for future bookings; 4) a listing of contractors they use who are already familiar with the property; 5) a listing of any contracts that would carry over to the new owner;6) details and copies of any existing property management software.What else?

Best use of this "extra" money has seemed to be for paying down payment of 3 additional homes per year at the 70-90k price range. (15-20k deposit each, 5-15k repairs each, additional cashflow avg 320/mth each).          

I would simply get away from any large bank and go to a small local community bank that will cherish your deposit relationship..

I'd be open to a month to month lease, but I'd still have them go through same screening, same deposit process, and same rules as other tenants.

With Apartments.com I can automate rent payments, have the security deposit paid, and have tenants upload their proof of renter’s insurance.Challenges of living with other roommates and renting by the room When living with roommates there are always challenges.