Alternatively, get someone to manage it as and Air BnB.   

Short-term rentals are booming right now, and can be a great investment, and alternative to traditional long-term tenants. 

@Anthony McGowan An attorney is going to be expensive, but another alternative to look into is small claims court - assuming that the EMD is below the maximum amount allowed in that venue.At least in the states I'm familiar with, you don't need an attorney. 

Alternative you create a bump out in each room for the close, but careful with the location as it affects the layout and function of the room.

as one of many potential issues..An alternate option, if you can find something "habitable", you can probably qualify for a FHA first-time home buyer, or even conventional 5% down loan on a more expensive property with your parent as a cosigner.

I'm no pro but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express recently so...There's plenty of free, low cost alternatives. 

does anyone know of a good or better alternative than rent-o-meter for working on finding rental prices for deals you analyse

Alternatively, you can search Craigslist for some local deals too; if you are able to pickup and deliver.

Call and ask them the best course of action.A good alternative would be working with a list broker to get a list such as Owners with Low Financial Stability Scores (FSS) These are people who's financial situation changed since they bought the property.

If the water is turned off for more than one day then you'll have to offer the tenants an alternate location to stay during that period.