Buying and "assuming tenants"

We've signed papers to buy a house and 'assume the month to month tenants" and their current rents (which could be raised somewhat but we'll cross that bridge later). These are tenants who have been there a few years and from what I saw at the property look after the place. We offered to assume them as a way to get the place and because it kind of works for us. It's a house with two apartments.


We are selling our house and using proceeds for downpayment. Within six months of taking possession of the new house we would like to travel. If possible, we would like to rent or housesit elsewhere before we go away, travel for half a year, come back and take over one of the units. Can we do that or will the bank treat the house as an investment property with all the downpayment rules and potentially higher interest?

Our other option is to take possession and immediately give one of the units notice that we need the unit for ourselves and live there for three or four months, then sublet for six. Just wondering if anyone has ideas. Calling a real estate lawyer as well - our agent is no help. We've basically assumed the risk of the deal being structured like this. We looked for almost two years for something that would suit our needs, location and come close to the budget - that's why we bought this place now.