These situations are fairly common, except the listing agent is usually not so public about the situation. Tenants are probably looking for key money from an interested buyer- essentially holding the property hostage for ransom. If the property goes to auction (sounds imminent), the successful bidder can choose to get friendly with the tenant in hopes of a fast possession with little extra property destruction, or wait for sheriff to evict and almost guarantee property sabotage. I know of scenarios where flippers give key money but the kitchen is still ripped out.......
