@Michael Mackney five months is a small sample set and sometimes random circumstance just opens your wallet. 

Were there circumstances which added to the timing that were beyond the contractor's control?

Account Closed I chose to use the words "be careful" in this particular post as things often are not as simple as they appear and there needs to be thorough discovery of the facts and circumstances underlying a person (or taxpayer's) situation before making a suggestion or firm recommendation.

This will help you get your thoughts organized and contribute to your self-confidence, in addition to learning more about your prospect's facts and circumstances.

Time and circumstances changes all people's minds.

But sure, if in your circumstances and investment wisdom, you can buy rentals much quicker (say, out-of-state), while still renting where you can't afford to buy?

Hard money should be used only in very specific and limited circumstances.

Lawyer is right cost you more in legal fee's .No lawyer is going to file a lis pendance for this set of circumstances.

I’m looking to move to Florida in another year from now so I also need to consider those circumstances as well.

Unless you get lucky, you are probably going to have to cancel the STR reservation, so I would immediately reach out to that customer and explain the circumstances and provide a full refund and some credit towards an upgrade for them.