They basically disappeared four days before closing, luckily the seller was flexible and allowed us to push closing out three times while we tried to get docs and communication from them.  

What do you think sets apart successful real estate investors and the ones who come and disappear?

A large share of blue collar jobs are going to disappear and I think there is no denying that.

I had no idea he'd disappear once I bought the house.I signed closing docs with a title company.

The bluer the state, the more risks you have on your real estate because the number of fines/payments to be made, and entities to be paid under threat of lein action escalates by the state.

It's hard to "love" dealing with a tenant who disappears owning you rent.

My question, dear forum members is, should I go and clean stove, take pictures, etc.. or let them follow-through on threat to withhold rent? 

There's no way I would ever eat the cost of a rental application as 80% of people who submit a rental application to me either A) disappear/change their mind or B) don't pass the stated rental acceptance criteria despite telling me they meet the requirements. 

NO, I do not feel that way.Personally, I think the threat from hurricane is a much bigger than the risk of carrying mortgage.

Ok here's another thought since I have 35 years in the building res and comm trades I have watched the supply of workers disappear  If and when residential ever starts backup to pre collapse days there's no where left to build